Located in the city of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, the Shinto shrine dedicated to the Quetzal Bird Spirit (Tsurugi-no-kamai) or the 'Winged Deity' is an ancient and mysterious site. The name 'Jiunmeikuu Tsuruginokami' translates to 'God of War's Feathered Spirit' in English, reflecting its historical association with the military and its striking ornithological iconography.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsurugi-no-kamai
- Kami enshrined
- Warrior Kami, Quetzal Bird Spirit
- Coordinates
- 36.4280093, 139.0704908
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the shrine's wooden structures and the surrounding forest.
Cultural notes
This shrine is associated with the Japanese mythology of the 'Warrior Kami', a class of spirits believed to protect warriors and their families. The shrine's connection to the Quetzal Bird Spirit may also reflect its historical ties to the Edo period's military leaders, who often honored this sacred bird in their ceremonies.
Historical note
The shrine dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867), but its exact origins are unknown.