Located in the city of Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, Sumiyoshi Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, with a history dating back to the 5th century. The shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami and the storm god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, two of the most powerful kami in Shinto mythology.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Susanoo
- Coordinates
- 34.4081785, 133.2028719
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during sunrise or sunset when possible, as the lighting highlights the shrine's unique torii gates.
Cultural notes
Sumiyoshi Shrine is famous for its traditional architecture, which features a vermilion torii gate and a magnificent haiden (main hall) adorned with wooden carvings. The shrine is also connected to the myth of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who was said to have been banished to the underworld by her brother Susanoo-no-Mikoto.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 712 CE during the Asuka period and relocated to its current site in 1583 CE.