Located in Gunma Prefecture, Akasaka Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami of the mountain and forest. Its name, "Akasaka," translates to "red-hill" or "red-mountain," possibly referencing its reddish-brown granite foundation stone. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it was established during the Nara period (710-794 CE) to honor the gods of the mountain and forest. In traditional Japanese architecture, the shrine is characterized by a simple yet elegant design, featuring a large torii gate made from wooden pillars adorned with vermilion paint.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yakushi
- Kami enshrined
- Mountain God, Yakushi
- Coordinates
- 36.2596193, 139.1735488
Visitor tip
To get the most out of your visit, try to attend the shrine's autumn leaves festival, which typically takes place in late November. The stunning fall colors are accompanied by traditional food stalls and local performers.
Cultural notes
Akasaka Shrine is particularly famous for its association with the god of rice, sake, and fertility, as well as the mountain god, Yakushi. It's also notable for its unique architectural feature: a large, vermilion torii gate that is said to have been built by a local daimyo in the Edo period.
Historical note
Akasaka Shrine was originally established during the Nara period, but its current structures were rebuilt in the Edo period (1603-1868 CE).