諏訪神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Suwa Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary in Tokushima located at the base of Mount Bizan in an area called Sumo-yama. The site features Kasuga-zukuri architectural style with clean lines and orderly design, with stairs leading to the main hall surrounded by numerous stone lion statues and mature azalea bushes that bloom in spring.
The shrine was established in 1585 during the Tenbun era by Hosokawa Ienari, the ruler of Tokushima, to protect the city from negative influences from the east. Over centuries, it was maintained and rebuilt by the Hachisuka clan, emphasizing its role as a guardian shrine for the castle.
The shrine is affectionately called 'Sako no Suwa-san' by locals and has served as a spiritual center for Tokushima residents for centuries. The grounds feature numerous distinctive stone lion statues that reflect the deep connection between this place and the community.
Access is via stairs from the base of the hill, and pathways within the grounds are well maintained. Visitors should expect a brief climb and the best time to visit is spring when cherry blossoms and azaleas are in bloom.
The site is known for its exceptional number of differently designed stone lions scattered throughout and features over 100 year-old azalea bushes. This combination of numerous individually crafted lion statues with mature flowering plants makes this shrine visually distinctive.
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