神明社, Shinto shrine in Japan
The Shinmei Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Yokohama situated on expansive grounds with multiple smaller shrines and traditional wooden buildings in Shinmei architectural style. The main temple dedicates itself to Amaterasu and another deity, surrounded by tall trees, walking paths, and peaceful spaces throughout the grounds.
The shrine was originally founded in 970 and later relocated to its current site in 1225. Over the centuries it received support from influential leaders, including Tokugawa Ieyasu, who helped rebuild the shrine's structures in the late 1500s, and in 1998 the main buildings were renovated.
The shrine takes its name from the deity Amaterasu, the sun goddess also worshipped at the Ise Grand Shrine. Visitors can observe local people writing wishes on wooden plaques and leaving offerings, practices that remain part of daily spiritual life here.
The shrine is about 10 minutes walk from Tennyama Station on the Sagami Railway and is easy to locate in an accessible area. The grounds have open space for exploring, with maintained paths and facilities available, making it simple for visitors to walk around without difficulty.
Visitors can spot squirrels and other small animals on the large wooded grounds, giving the place a special connection to nature within the city. The shrine sits on a protected forest area that has been preserved for centuries and draws wildlife.
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