TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Atsuta Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Atsuta Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, and has long been revered as the shrine that enshrines the Kusanagi Sword, one of the Three Sacred Treasures. It is said to have been founded in ancient times, and is a prestigious shrine that has historically been revered by the Imperial family and the Owari Province. The sacred grounds, surrounded by a vast forest, change in appearance with each season, and are charming with their tranquility and solemn atmosphere that will make you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
In addition to the main hall, the grounds also contain a treasure museum (Atsuta Jingu Treasure Museum), old trees, a Kagura hall, a Noh stage, and other attractions, making it a popular venue for Shinto rituals, festivals, and traditional performing arts. Worshippers visit the shrine throughout the year for the famous "Hatsumode" (first visit of the year), annual festivals, Shichi-Go-San (753), weddings, and more.
Highlights
- Main shrine:This is the main shrine where the Kusanagi sword is enshrined. You can feel the majesty and dignity of its appearance (please note that photography may not be permitted inside the main hall).
- Treasure Museum (Atsuta Shrine Treasure Museum):Historical materials such as ancient documents, sacred treasures, and weapons are on display. You can learn about the culture and history of Atsuta. There are also changing exhibits and special exhibitions.
- Large camphor tree and old trees:There are many large trees within the temple grounds, and even a stroll in their shade is relaxing. The large trees that exude a sense of history are particularly worth seeing.
- Kagura Hall and Noh Stage:Kagura and Noh performances, as well as dedication ceremonies, are held regularly, providing an opportunity to experience traditional performing arts.
- Approach and torii gate:The tranquil approach to the shrine and the large torii gate are great photo spots. The shrine is beautiful throughout the seasons, making it a great place for a stroll.
- Nearby gourmet specialties:Around the temple grounds, there are famous restaurants serving Nagoya's specialty, Hitsumabushi (for example, a long-established restaurant in the Atsuta area) and Yakishimen restaurants, which you can enjoy while praying.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Meitetsu Jingumae Station:The temple grounds are accessible from Nagoya Station by Meitetsu train, just one or two stops away, or from Jingumae Station, which is a convenient 3-minute walk away.
- JR Atsuta Station:If you are using the JR line, it is about a 10-15 minute walk from Atsuta Station. It is also recommended to combine this with a stroll.
- Kanayama Station:Kanayama Station (JR, Meitetsu, Subway) is the nearest major transfer station, and from there you can walk to Jingumae in 10-15 minutes or take the train one stop.
- Bus/Car:It is also accessible by city buses and Nagoya city route buses. Parking spaces are limited, so we recommend using public transportation when it is crowded.
- Example of required time:Please allow approximately 10 to 20 minutes (ride + walk) from Nagoya Station.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visit only: 30 to 45 minutes
- Strolling around the temple grounds + taking photos: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Thorough sightseeing including a visit to the Treasure Museum: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- If meals are included in the area: 2 hours to half a day
Nearby spots
- Atsuta Shrine Treasure Museum (precincts):The history and treasures of the shrine are on display, and can be seen in just a short walk.
- Famous Hitsumabushi restaurants (Around Atsuta):There are many long-established restaurants serving Nagoya's famous eel dishes, which we recommend combining with your visit to the shrine.
- Osu Shopping Street and Osu Kannon Temple:Just a few train stops away, you can enjoy shopping and B-grade gourmet food.
- Nagoya City Center (Nagoya Castle/Sakae area):Sightseeing and shopping spots are all concentrated in one area, so you can tour them according to your schedule.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:It gets very crowded during New Year's Day (from New Year's Day to a few days in January), annual festivals, major festivals, and weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on a weekday morning.
- Courtesy and Manners:Please observe basic manners, such as bowing once in front of the torii gate, purifying yourself at the temizuya (purification fountain), bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once when praying. Please be considerate of other worshippers by not shouting within the temple grounds and taking your trash with you.
- photograph:Photography is permitted in many places within the temple grounds, but there may be restrictions on photography inside the main hall, at Shinto priest events, or during the bridal procession. Please follow the posted notices and instructions of the staff.
- Clothing and walking comfort:Although many areas of the temple grounds are paved, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes when strolling around. Wear shoes that protect you from the sun and heat in summer and from the wind in winter.
- Treasure Museum and Shrine Office Hours:The Treasure Museum and the shrine office (for amulets and red seals) have opening and closing times, so please check the opening hours on the official website or at the shrine office before visiting.
- Pets:There may be restrictions on pets being allowed on the temple grounds, so please check in advance.
*Please check the Atsuta Shrine official website or on-site information for the latest event schedules, opening hours, and transportation information.
