Atsuta Shrine Nagoya

Nagoya is a dotted with the traces of a glorious culture that now stand as major tourist attractions of the city. The Atsuta Shrine is one such specimen of ancient architecture, and attracts numerous tourists to marvel at one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan. Constructed in the original Japanese Shinmei-zukuri architecture, the shrine is a fine replica of the Ise Shrines.

Atsuta is in fact, ranks second among the venerable shrines of the country. Located in the southern part of Nagoya, the shrine is visited by numerous pilgrims each year. Atsuta is devoted to Amaterasu, or the Sun Goddess, and the Kusanagi no mitsurugi sword placed in the shrine is revered as one of the three Imperial regalia of the country. Only a few highest priests are permitted to see the sword. Though guarded from the general viewers, it fascinates them with an exciting mythology. The sword is believed to belong to the storm god Susanoo, and was passed on to the legendary hero Yamato-takeru who waved away the flames with his sword. Atsuta houses an enchanting collection of about four thousand artifacts that manifest the richness of ancient culture.

Atsuta Shrine is girdled by a lush stretch of vegetation. The compound also houses Hongu, or the main shrine. To its east is the Treasury that displays a fascinating store of artworks that range from antique pictures, to ceramics and jewelry.

Nearly seventy festivals are hosted here each year, and the shrine attracts numerous tourists to savor the richness of ancient traditions. As some of the most colorful ceremonies are observed here, the shrine serves as a guardian of ancient Japanese customs. One of the most popular festivals celebrated here is the Eyoudo ceremony in which the Shinto priests march around the shrine laughing and chanting.

Located in the grounds of Atsuta Shrine, is a small restaurant that serves some of the most authentic delicacies of the locality.

Hotels in Nagoya
Marunouchi Tokyu Inn Hotel	Mitsui Urban Hotel
Sakae Tokyu Inn Hotel	Hamilton Annex Hotel
Apa Nishiki Hotel	Cypress Garden Hotel