Saminaga Shrine, Shinto shrine in Japan
Saminaga Shrine is a small Shinto shrine built in the traditional Shinmei-zukuri style in Isobecho-Erihara in Shima. The main hall features a simple wooden structure with straight lines, reached by climbing 36 stone steps from the tall wooden gate at the entrance.
The shrine was believed to have been built during the time of Emperor Suinin many centuries ago and originally sat in wetland areas. It was later moved to its current hilltop location before the Edo period, when it became connected to nearby Izawa-no-miya through a sacred path.
The shrine is dedicated to Toshigami, a god connected to seasons and harvests. Visitors can see how local people come during festivals in traditional clothes, bring offerings, and gather to celebrate together.
The shrine is easily accessible by car via Japan National Route 167 or by train from Shima-Isobe Station about five minutes on foot. There is no parking lot on the shrine grounds, but parking can be found nearby between the local fire station and a bookstore.
The shrine buildings were traditionally rebuilt every few decades to keep them in good condition and bring the community together. During special ceremonies that occur every few years, the sacred object inside is rotated to face north or south in a process called Sengū.
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