Located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, Akakawa-Shinbutsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the kami of the valley and river. The shrine's name, 'Akakawa,' translates to 'red river' due to its location along the red-colored river. Historical records indicate that the shrine has been in operation since the Edo period (1603-1867), with evidence of earlier Shinto practices dating back to the Heian period (794-1185).
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 34.7409006, 137.9373707
Visitor tip
To experience the local culture, visit the shrine during the Akakawa Matsuri festival in July, where you can participate in traditional dances and games, and try local specialties such as red bean soup.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the mythology of the local river valley. According to legend, the kami was responsible for a devastating flood that destroyed the village, but ultimately brought fertility and prosperity to the area. The shrine's architecture reflects this connection, with a distinctive hagoromo (sacred ladder) structure representing the kami's ascension to heaven.
Historical note
Established during the Edo period.