Tsuge-mikumari-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Tsuge-mikumari-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Nara located on a small hill at the edge of a village, providing a quiet and natural setting. The sanctuary features a modest main hall with traditional Japanese rooflines, surrounded by ancient trees, stone lanterns, and moss-covered pathways that blend naturally into the surroundings.
The shrine dates from ancient times and has been revered by the imperial court for centuries, which prayed here for rain and good harvests. Its significance lies in its connection to water sources and flood control, drawing farmers to this place for many generations.
The shrine is deeply tied to local water culture and is revered by farmers who come here to pray for adequate rain for their fields. Visitors can observe people leaving small wooden wish plaques and practicing traditional gestures like bowing and hand clapping to capture the attention of the deities.
The shrine has no restrooms or parking facilities, so plan ahead and arrive on foot or by bicycle. The best time to visit is during local festivals or special days when ceremonies take place and the community gathers.
The shrine sits on a cliff, making it geographically distinct and offering a special perspective on the surrounding landscape. This elevated position reinforces its spiritual significance as a place of connection between heaven and earth.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.