Atsuta Jingu Shrine

Frommer's Review

Because it contains one of the emperor's Three Sacred Treasures, this is revered as one of the three most important shrines in Japan. Founded in the 2nd century and last rebuilt in 1935, it enshrines the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Mowing Sword), which is one of the Imperial Regalia of the Emperor. The other two sacred treasures are the Sacred Mirror (in the Ise Grand Shrines) and the Jewels (in the Imperial Palace in Tokyo). According to legend, the Grass-Mowing Sword was presented to a prince named Yamato-Takeru, who used it during a campaign against rebels in eastern Japan; the rebels set a field of grass on fire, and the prince used the sword to mow down the grass, thereby quelling the fire. (Atsuta means "hot field" in Japanese.) Actually, there isn't much to see here -- the sword is never on public display -- yet this remains one of Nagoya's top attractions, and Japanese make pilgrimages here to pay their respects, first purifying their hands or mouths with water, then throwing coins into the money box, clapping to gain the attention of the gods, and bowing as they pray. Surrounded by stately, ancient cypress trees, the shrine provides a nice respite from city life.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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