Suwanoyashiro Shrine, located in Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, and is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and historic architecture. The shrine's name literally means 'rice field shrine.' In Shinto mythology, it is said that the goddess Amaterasu took a liking to this place and hid her mirror, a symbol of power, in a rice paddy here, bringing prosperity to the region.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susano-o
- Kami enshrined
- Susano'o
- Coordinates
- 36.9538027, 137.5117398
Visitor tip
To experience the full autumn foliage at Suwanoyashiro Shrine, visit during the first week of November when the maple trees are in peak color. The best viewing spots can be found along the main path leading to the shrine's main hall.
Cultural notes
Suwanoyashiro Shrine is famous for its many festivals throughout the year, including the annual Autumn Festival (Koyo Matsuri) and the Rice Harvesting Festival (Ginji Matsuri). The shrine is also known for its unique architecture, which features a prominent torii gate surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and has undergone many renovations since then.