Suwa Taisha Shrine

Suwa Taisha Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Shimosuwa area of Nagano, Nagano, Japan. It is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan, with a history dating back over 1,200 years. The shrine is dedicated to the god of the Suwa region, and is said to have been founded in the 7th century.

Getting There

The shrine is located about 2 hours from Tokyo by train. Take the JR Chuo Line to Shimosuwa Station, then transfer to the Suwa Line and get off at Suwa Taisha Station. From there, it is a short walk to the shrine.

What to See

The main hall of the shrine, called Honmiya, is an impressive structure with a thatched roof. It is said to be one of the largest thatched-roof buildings in Japan. Inside the hall, you can see the shrine's main object of worship, a sacred mirror that is said to be a symbol of the god of the Suwa region.

There are also a number of other buildings and structures on the shrine grounds, including the Katakura Hall, which is said to be the oldest building on the site, and the Kaguraden, where traditional Shinto dances are performed.

When to Visit

The shrine is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during one of the shrine's festivals. The most famous festival is the Onbashira Festival, which takes place every six years in the spring. During the festival, massive tree trunks are transported from the mountains to the shrine, where they are erected as part of the shrine's renewal ceremony.

Conclusion

Suwa Taisha Shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. With its beautiful buildings and rich history, it is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Nagano.