朝代神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Asashiro Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary in Maizuru featuring a main hall constructed with cypress bark roofing and designated as a municipal cultural property. The grounds contain several subsidiary shrines, a large stone torii gate, and tree-lined stone pathways that wind through the compound toward the primary structure.
According to tradition, the shrine originated in 672 when the spirit of Izanagi was transferred from Awaji Island to this location. The main hall was reconstructed following a fire during the Edo period and received municipal cultural property designation in 1928.
Asashiro Shrine serves as a spiritual center where locals honor Izanagi, one of Japan's primordial deities. The shrine grounds reflect how the community continues to gather here for blessings related to family protection, marriage, and prosperity, maintaining a living tradition passed down through generations.
The shrine is freely accessible with no admission fee, allowing visitors to explore the grounds at leisure. Parking is available near the entrance, and the site is approximately 10 minutes on foot from West Maizuru Station.
Every four years, the grounds host sacred sword-dance ceremonies in which performers brandish long blades through vigorous choreography. This rare performance tradition preserves a martial display ritual found in only a handful of shrines across the country.
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