Suga-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Suga-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Nagahama featuring wooden buildings and stone lanterns on a quiet, well-kept ground. The grounds include subsidiary shrines dedicated to various deities, a hand-washing station at the entrance, and a main hall reached by gravel paths.
The shrine was founded around the year 764 and was originally called Horyu Shrine. Over the centuries, it remained a place where the community honored its gods despite undergoing various changes throughout its long history.
The shrine is named after Emperor Junen and two mountain gods believed to protect the land and its people. The annual festival on April 3rd brings the village community together to honor these gods through prayers, offerings, and rituals that connect the past to the present day.
Visit the shrine early in the morning or on weekdays for a quieter experience away from crowds. The grounds are easy to explore on foot, but allow time for the ritual hand and mouth washing before entering the main hall, which is an important part of the visit.
The shrine has a connection to Emperor Junen, who is said to have hidden in this area many centuries ago. A statue or symbol on the grounds reminds visitors of this historical tie and adds meaning to the experience of walking through the site.
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