A–Z directory

前郷神明社

Japanese Name前郷神明社
PrefectureAkita
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityInari
Coordinates39.3160278, 140.1111040

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

The Honji-dera, a famous Buddhist temple in Nara, influenced the construction of many Japanese temples and shrines, including前郷神明社 (Tsugaru Shrine) in Akita Prefecture. Built in 1608, Tsugaru Shrine was originally constructed to worship Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical roots as a Buddhist temple, with a unique blend of traditional Japanese elements. Visitors can still see evidence of this syncretism, including intricate wood carvings and ornate roof tiles. Today, Tsugaru Shrine remains an important Shinto site, celebrating the annual Omisoka festival to mark the end of the year, as well as various local festivals throughout the year.

Cultural Significance

Tsugaru Shrine is deeply connected to local folklore, particularly in relation to rice cultivation. The shrine's Inari deity is said to grant prosperity and good harvests to those who make offerings of sake and rice. During the Omisoka festival, devotees visit the shrine to pray for a bountiful new year, often leaving behind tokens of gratitude at the shrine's gates.

Enshrined Deities

Inari Ukanoyama-yorihime no Kami

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Spot an error?

This shrine data is sourced from OpenStreetMap. You can submit a correction or edit it on OpenStreetMap.

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

Browse shrines by prefecture

Jump to Shinto shrines across Japan — 108 prefectures in our directory.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To fully appreciate the shrine's architecture, take a stroll along its grounds during sunrise or sunset, when the natural light highlights the intricate wood carvings and ornate details.

History

Built in 1608

A-Z Creatures
Learn Japanese

Japanese Culture Network

Japanese Wood Joints

Ancient joinery techniques of Japanese master craftsmen

ShrinePuzzle

Directory of Japanese board games and traditional games

Kohibou

Japanese coffee culture — kissaten, third wave and brewing guides

E2Japan

Explore Japan's landmarks, shrines and hidden locations

The 725 Club

SNES and Super Famicom collection tracker

Spaceship Adventures

Hoshi no Isan — a Japanese-aesthetic space RPG in development

Japan In Pixels

A pixel art map of Japanese culture — coming 2027

CSSKitsune

Japanese-aesthetic design tokens & AI-ready UI prompts

Shinto Wisdom app icon
Free App · No Ads · Offline

Shinto Wisdom Daily Practice

by 10k Game Studio

Every day, one teaching. One moment of stillness.
Kanji, meaning, and a quiet reflection — rooted in the philosophy behind Japan's forests, seasons, and sacred silences.

結び Musubi 清め Harae 自然 Shizen 間 Ma 誠 Makoto + 45 more
Get it on Google Play

Explore 297+ yōkai, oni, kami, and spirits — plus one of the largest English-language Shinto shrine directories on the web.

Explore
Popular Yokai
Popular Shrines

Content Warning: This website explores Japanese folklore and mythological beings—including yokai, oni, and other supernatural entities—that may be frightening to younger audiences or sensitive viewers. All material is presented for educational and cultural appreciation only. Viewer discretion is advised.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to preview content before sharing it with children. By continuing to use JapaneseMythicalCreatures.com, you acknowledge and accept this advisory.

Copyright © 2026 Japanese Mythical Creatures • All Rights Reserved.