Located in the heart of Aomori, the Great Forest Shrine is dedicated to the worship of Ryūjin, the Shinto god of the sea and storms. The shrine's architecture reflects its connection to the ocean, with tall cedar pillars and a distinctive torii gate adorned with sea shells and other coastal motifs.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryūjin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryūjin
- Coordinates
- 40.3358453, 140.5673288
Visitor tip
For visitors arriving by sea, take a short walk from the shrine to the nearby harbor and enjoy a traditional Aomori seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Cultural notes
As Ryūjin is revered as the god of storms, the shrine's festival in October celebrates the harvest season with rituals to ensure good weather for the coming year. The distinctive cedar pillars are said to have been gifted by Ryūjin himself.
Historical note
Founded in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the Great Forest Shrine has played an important role in Aomori's history and culture.