Located in the town of Aki, Shimane Prefecture, Honjiwakizuka Shinto Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most historic shrines. Dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE), it is dedicated to the Shinto god Inari Okami, revered for its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture. The shrine complex features a unique landscape design with multiple valleys, known as 'wakizuka,' which is believed to have been created by Inari himself.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 34.6031939, 133.2546533
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the sun casts a warm glow over the wakizuka landscape.
Cultural notes
Honjiwakizuka Shrine is known for its unique 'shinmei' system of land division, where the sacred and profane are separated by a river. This reflects the Shinto concept of separating the divine from human life. The shrine also hosts an annual 'Setsubun' festival in February, where devotees throw soybeans to ward off evil spirits.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE) by Emperor Shomu.