Located in Saitama Prefecture, Genshin Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of rice and agriculture. The shrine's main hall is decorated with vermilion torii gates and a large wooden gate known as 'toji.' Genshin Shrine is particularly famous for its unique architectural feature: a 10-meter-tall stone statue of Genshin Okami, which is said to protect the crops from pests and diseases. Visitors can also participate in the shrine's annual Genshin Taikomachi Festival, where they can try on traditional rice harvesting costumes and take part in traditional dances.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Genshin Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Genshin Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.9028735, 139.6204398
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, try to attend the festival in September, when you can see traditional farmers dressed in their finest clothes and performing traditional dances while wearing giant rice paddles on their backs.
Cultural notes
Genshin Shrine is said to be connected to the mythology of Genshin Okami, a powerful kami believed to protect crops from pests and diseases. In Shinto tradition, it is customary to offer prayers to the kami for good harvests and bountiful rice stores during the annual festival.
Historical note
Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), Genshin Shrine has been a significant center for agriculture and farming in Saitama Prefecture.