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秋葉山本宮秋葉神社下社

Akiha-jinja Shrine Shimosha

Japanese Name秋葉山本宮秋葉神社下社
English NameAkiha-jinja Shrine Shimosha
PrefectureShizuoka
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityAkiha-no-kami
Coordinates34.9539076, 137.8814422

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the town of Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, Akiha-jinja Shrine Shimosha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Akiha-no-kami, also known as Takemikazuchi, the god of thunder. The shrine is renowned for its unique architecture, with a distinctive five-story pagoda and a museum housing an impressive collection of artifacts from the region's rich cultural heritage. As one of the oldest shrines in Iwata, Akiha-jinja Shrine Shimosha has played a significant role in the town's history and continues to be an important site for locals and tourists alike.

Cultural Significance

Akiha-jinja Shrine Shimosha is closely associated with the legend of Akiha-no-kami, who was said to have been invited by Emperor Jimmu to the imperial court. The shrine's five-story pagoda is believed to represent the five virtues of Buddhism and Shintoism: wisdom, compassion, morality, discipline, and purity.

Enshrined Deities

Takemikazuchi Akiha-no-kami

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

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Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To fully appreciate the shrine's atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the golden light of sunrise or sunset illuminates the pagoda and surrounding gardens.

History

The shrine was established during the Edo period (1603-1867).

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