Located in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park,杵臼神社 is a small Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the god of hot springs, Ryūjin. The shrine is situated near a natural hot spring and is believed to have been established to harness its healing properties. Visitors can take a soak in the natural hot spring located within the shrine grounds.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryūjin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryūjin
- Coordinates
- 43.0427713, 141.827103
Visitor tip
Be sure to arrive early in the morning to experience the serene atmosphere and take a soak in the natural hot spring before it gets crowded.
Cultural notes
As Ryūjin is often depicted as a powerful dragon-like god, visitors can expect to find intricate woodcarvings and designs featuring dragon motifs within the shrine's architecture. The shrine also hosts a New Year (Oshogatsu) festival in late January, where locals come to pray for good health and prosperity.
Historical note
The shrine was established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), but little is known about its early history.