Susanoo-jinja, shrine in Itami, Hyōgo
Susanoo-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Itami with a simple wooden building and traditional roof, surrounded by old trees on a quiet street. The grounds feature several torii gates, a hand-washing station, and are decorated with stone lanterns and small guardian figures believed to be messengers of the gods.
The shrine was founded after a high-ranking person discovered a special stone from which two deities emerged: Susanoo and Asuka, believed to protect the area from sickness and misfortune. The site also holds a protected poem by the famous poet Matsuo Basho, which underscores the cultural significance of this place.
Susanoo-jinja is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Gozu Tennō, two deities that the community petitions for protection and health. Visitors leave offerings and hang small wooden plaques with their wishes, a daily custom that shows the ongoing relationship between people and these revered gods.
The shrine is just a short walk from several train stations and sits on quiet, manageable streets with simple shops and homes. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the main hall and keep their voices low out of respect.
The shrine features an ancient ginkgo tree with a trunk so thick it takes many arms to circle it. According to legend, tea made from the bark helped a mother feed her baby, and since then women have visited the tree seeking similar blessings.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
