Located in the city of Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, Suwa Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the kami (spirits) of Mount Yari and its surrounding waters. Founded during the Nara period, the shrine has been an important cultural and spiritual hub for centuries, known for its unique architecture and rich history.
- Denomination
- shinto
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.2810484, 139.570837
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit during a peaceful morning or late afternoon when the sun casts gentle shadows on the grounds.
Cultural notes
Suwa Shrine is famous for its stunning wooden torii gate, which stands over 9 meters tall and is said to be one of the tallest in Japan. The shrine is also closely tied to the mythology of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful storm god, and is often visited during the New Year's festival (Oshogatsu) for good fortune and purification.
Historical note
Suwa Shrine was founded in the Nara period (710-794 CE), one of Japan's earliest recorded shrines.