Suwa Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Suwa no Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a center of harvest festivals and rituals to ensure bountiful crops. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Suwa Jinja is steeped in tradition and history.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Suwa no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Suwa no Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.1581154, 137.9712989
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's full vitality, visit on October 22nd, the day of the annual Autumn Harvest Festival (Aki Matsuri), and try some local specialties like takoyaki or okonomiyaki from the food stalls nearby.
Cultural notes
Suwa Jinja is closely tied to the mythology of the Japanese harvest season. According to legend, the god Suwa no Okami descended to Earth to help humanity by teaching agriculture. The shrine's main hall features a wooden statue of Suwa no Okami with two wives, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), making it over 1,300 years old.