Scattered throughout Japan are many Shrines and Temples. Serving as places of worship for Shintoism and Buddhism, many shrines and temples open themselves up to the public and have become popular tourism destinations. Akita is no different, with many shrines and temples scattered across the prefecture.
Shrine and Temple Seals
Goshuin (御朱印) are individual seals distributed at most shrines and temples in Japan. They are stamps and specialized calligraphy that can be gathered in special books called Goshuinchos (御朱印帳) which can be bought at some shrines, temples, and book stores. Note that while often collected by tourists, these are still religious seals, so a proper goshuincho is required to receive a seal. The books sell for around 1500 yen, and the average seal costs 300 yen. Goshuinchos are a great way to have a personalized record of your trips around Japan!
Shrines and Temples in Akita
Shrine will be sorted by block.
North
| Name
|
Description
|
Temple or Shrine
|
Goshuin
|
Picture
|
| Asama Shrine
|
This small shrine located in Fujikoto is known for the Asama Festival, with Fujisato's horse dance festival.
|
Shrine
|
Yes
|
|
| Yasaka Shrine
|
This small shrine in Kazuno is the highest rated shrine in Akita on Omairi.club. It is small, cute, and has a very friendly owner.
|
Shrine
|
Yes
|
|
Capital Block
| Name
|
Description
|
Temple or Shrine
|
Goshuin
|
Picture
|
| Shinzan Shrine
|
This shrine in Oga is located just a short distance from the Namahage Museum. You can stop by both easily for some Namahage fun!
|
Shrine
|
Yes
|
|
South Block
| Name
|
Description
|
Temple or Shrine
|
Goshuin
|
Picture
|
| Gozanoishi Shrine
|
This shrine in Semboku is one of the two famous shrines on Lake Tazawa. The Tori Gate is famous, and is located right on the water.
|
Shrine
|
Yes
|
|
| Ukiki Shrine
|
This shrine in Semboku is the other famous shrine on Lake Tazawa. Located near the famous statue, this shrine is actually suspended above the lake.
|
Shrine
|
Yes
|
|
Yuri Block
| Name
|
Description
|
Temple or Shrine
|
Goshuin
|
Picture
|
| Kinpou Shrine
|
This shrine in Nikaho covers a small forested area. Just a short hike from the shrine, you can see a large waterfall!
|
Shrine
|
No
|
|
See also
- Life in Akita
- Omairi, a Japanese website for shrines and temples. You can search by prefecture or "by you".
