Atsuta Shrine
Guardian of the Sacred Sword and Soul of Nagoya
Atsuta Shrine's legendary founding dates to 113 AD, making it one of Japan's oldest and most sacred Shinto shrines. According to mythology, the shrine was established to enshrine Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword), one of the Three Sacred Treasures of the Imperial Family symbolizing the legitimacy of the emperor. The sword was supposedly discovered in the tail of the eight-headed serpent Yamata-no-Orochi by the storm god Susanoo and presented to the sun goddess Amaterasu.
Throughout history, Atsuta Shrine has been revered as second only to Ise Grand Shrine in importance. The shrine served as a spiritual fortress for Nagoya and the surrounding region. Many historical figures, including warlords Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, offered prayers here before major military campaigns. During the Edo period, pilgrimage to Atsuta became popular among commoners, establishing it as a major religious destination.
The shrine complex covers 190,000 square meters with a forest of over 1,000 trees, some centuries old, creating a sacred atmosphere in the heart of modern Nagoya. The shrine hosts approximately 70 annual festivals and religious ceremonies, maintaining traditions passed down through nearly 2,000 years. The treasure hall displays over 6,000 artifacts, including swords, armor, and art donated by emperors and warlords throughout history. The sacred sword itself is never displayed, maintaining its mystery and sacred status.
Key Highlights
- Founded circa 113 AD, over 1,900 years of continuous worship
- Houses Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of Three Imperial Sacred Treasures
- Second most important Shinto shrine after Ise Grand Shrine
- Sacred forest with over 1,000 ancient trees covering 190,000 sq meters
- Treasure hall displays 6,000+ artifacts from emperors and warlords
- Approximately 9 million visitors annually, especially at New Year
Access Information
Location
1-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 456-8585, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Jingu-mae Station (Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line)
- • Atsuta-jingu-mae Station (Meijo Line)
- • Atsuta-jingu-nishi Station (Meijo Line)
Opening Hours
Shrine grounds: open 24 hours | Main worship hall: accessible during daylight hours | Treasure Hall: 9:00-16:30 (last entry 16:10), closed last Wed-Thu of each month and Dec 25-31
Admission Fee
Shrine grounds: Free | Treasure Hall: ¥300 for adults
How to Get There
From Nagoya Station
Meitetsu Nagoya Line to Jingu-mae Station
20 minutes
From Nagoya Station
Subway Higashiyama Line to Sakae, transfer to Meijo Line to Atsuta-jingu-nishi
25 minutes
From Jingu-mae Station
Walk east to main entrance
5 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Proper Shrine Etiquette
Bow when passing through torii gates. Purify hands and mouth at the temizuya. At the main hall, throw a coin, bow twice, clap twice, pray silently, then bow once. The sacred sword is never visible to visitors, housed deep within the main sanctuary.
Explore the Sacred Forest
The extensive wooded grounds contain multiple smaller shrines, ancient trees, and quiet paths. Walking through the forest is as important as visiting the main hall. The atmosphere shifts from urban to sacred within steps.
Treasure Hall (Homotsukan)
The museum displays nationally important cultural properties including swords, armor, masks, and artwork spanning centuries. Items were donated by emperors, samurai lords, and nobles. Photography prohibited. Worth the small admission fee.
Famous Atsuta Horaiken
Try hitsumabushi (Nagoya's grilled eel specialty) at Horaiken, a legendary restaurant founded in 1873 adjacent to the shrine. The restaurant created this eating style: eel on rice eaten three ways (plain, with condiments, as ochazuke with broth).
Major Festival: June 5
The annual Atsuta Festival on June 5 is Nagoya's largest religious celebration with traditional performances, processions, and over 250,000 visitors. Fireworks conclude the evening. Book accommodation early if visiting during this festival.
Best Times to Visit
Early morning offers peaceful atmosphere before crowds arrive. Weekdays are less busy than weekends. New Year period (Jan 1-3) brings huge crowds for hatsumode. Avoid unless you specifically want to experience this tradition.
Omamori and Ema
Purchase protective amulets (omamori) or wooden wish plaques (ema) from the shrine office. Atsuta's omamori are considered particularly powerful due to the shrine's sacred status and connection to the Imperial sacred treasures.
Cultural Significance
Understanding the shrine's connection to the Three Imperial Regalia (mirror, sword, jewel) and Japanese mythology enriches the visit. The sword here, along with the mirror at Ise and jewel at Imperial Palace, legitimizes the emperor's divine authority in Shinto belief.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Atsuta Shrine?
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the main shrine and grounds. Add time if visiting the treasure hall or during festivals. The peaceful atmosphere invites leisurely exploration.
What makes this shrine special?
Atsuta houses the sacred Kusanagi sword, one of Japan's three imperial regalia. Though never displayed publicly, its presence makes this one of Shinto's most important shrines. The 1,900-year history adds significance.
Can I see the sacred sword?
No, the Kusanagi sword is never shown publicly and is kept in the inner sanctuary. Even the Emperor has never seen it. The treasure hall displays other important artifacts instead.
Is the treasure hall worth visiting?
For history enthusiasts, yes. It displays swords, masks, documents, and artifacts donated over centuries. The collection rotates regularly. Entry fee is separate from the free shrine access.
When are the main festivals?
The Atsuta Festival on June 5th features martial arts demonstrations and traditional performances. New Year draws massive crowds. Various smaller festivals occur throughout the year.
Can I have a traditional Shinto wedding here?
Yes, but primarily for Japanese citizens or residents. You might witness wedding processions on weekends. Photography of ceremonies requires discretion and respect.
Are there places to eat nearby?
The shrine's vicinity has restaurants serving Nagoya's famous hitsumabushi (grilled eel). Several traditional sweet shops line the approach. The nearby Jingu-mae station area has many options.
Is it crowded on weekends?
Weekends see more visitors but the spacious grounds rarely feel overcrowded except during major festivals. Early mornings and late afternoons are quietest. New Year is extremely busy.
What's the giant camphor tree?
The 1,000-year-old sacred tree near the main shrine is believed to grant wishes. Many visitors touch or embrace it while praying. It's an impressive natural monument.
What else can I see nearby?
Shirotori Garden offers traditional landscaping nearby. Nagoya Castle is 20 minutes away. The Atsuta-ku area has several smaller shrines and temples worth exploring.
Nearby Attractions
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