Kakunodate Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity of medicine, Yakushin. As one of the oldest shrines in Akita, it has a rich history dating back to the Edo period. The shrine's main hall was rebuilt in the Meiji era, featuring a unique hexagonal shape inspired by Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several historic buildings and traditional gardens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yakushin
- Kami enshrined
- Yakushin
- Coordinates
- 40.0901737, 140.035886
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the main hall's hexagonal roof.
Cultural notes
Yakushin is revered as the patron of medicine and healing. The shrine is famous for its traditional medicine market, where visitors can purchase herbal remedies and other medicinal products.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Momoyama period (1573-1603) and relocated to its current site in 1888.