Shinmei-sha, Shinto shrine in Japan
Shinmei-sha is a small shrine in the Nakatomi district, built in the traditional Shinmei-zukuri style with simple wooden lines and natural materials. The building stands on a raised platform with clean, straight forms and no elaborate carvings, featuring a roof covered with wooden shingles.
The shrine dates back to the early days of Japanese history and was built by the first settlers of the area to honor the sun goddess. The Shinmei-zukuri style originates before 552 and is rebuilt every 20 years or so to preserve its original form.
The shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and draws visitors who come to pray for good fortune and health. The community gathers here during festivals, when the grounds are decorated with paper lanterns and banners, coming together to celebrate and give thanks.
The grounds are quiet and well-kept, with simple stone steps leading to the main area, and it is usually reached on foot from central Nakatomi. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting with surrounding trees and stone lanterns during quieter hours.
The shrine is regularly taken apart and rebuilt following the same tradition, meaning the wooden frame is replaced while the appearance stays unchanged. This practice keeps old craftsmanship methods alive and ensures the historical form is never lost.
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