Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya

Atsuta Shrine was founded 1900 years ago in Nagoya. It is one of the most important shrines in Japan, second after the Great Shrines of Ise.

Over nine million people visit the shrine every year. It is popular to visit at the new year and for special ceremonies.

Throughout the years, the shrine was maintained by feudal lords, such as Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa. At the museum, there are over 4,000 items donated by the Imperial Family, feudal lords, and local people. Items include traditional clothing, furniture, utensils, swords, and Noh masks.

Unfortunately, the buildings were destroyed during World War II. The current structures were completed in 1955.

Imperial Regalia

There are three symbols of the Imperial Family in Japan: a mirror, a jewel, and a sword.

The sacred mirror is stored at Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture. The sacred jewel is at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The sacred sword is at Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya.

Keep in mind that the sword is not on display to the public.

Atsuta Shrine Festival

Every year there is a festival held on June 5 at the shrine. During the festival, you can see traditional dances with flutes, taiko drumming performances, and beautiful floats. The festival comes to a close with a fireworks display in the evening.

Kishimen Noodles

One of the specialty foods of Nagoya is Kishimen, a flat noodle made from wheat flour. On the shrine grounds, there is a restaurant where you can eat this local cuisine.

Admission

Atsuta-jingu Shrine is always open and free to enter. See the official website for details.

How to Get There

Take the Meitetsu train from Nagoya Station to Jingumae Station. From Jingumae Station, it is a 3-minute walk to the shrine.

If you have a Japan Rail Pass, then you can take the JR Tokaido Line from Nagoya Station to Atsuta Station. From Atsuta Station, it is an 8-minute walk to the shrine.