Hightail Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the spirit of a fox or a fox-like creature that was said to have been transformed into a tree by the gods. The shrine is believed to be the dwelling place of this powerful kami and is famous for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tatsu no kami
- Kami enshrined
- Tatsu, the, fox
- Coordinates
- 39.5446973, 140.1870518
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the shrine's garden, visit at dawn or dusk when the sun's rays illuminate the trees and highlight the intricate carvings on the shrine's exterior.
Cultural notes
Hightail Shrine is famous for its annual 'Fukube Matsuri' festival, which takes place in October. During this festival, devotees carry large wooden dolls of fox spirits through the streets, reenacting an ancient legend about a fox spirit that was said to have been tamed by a local farmer.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in the 7th century during the Nara period, but it has undergone several renovations and expansions throughout its history.