Atsuta Jingu - red and white striped textile
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Atsuta Jingu

4.5
·21k reviews·Nagoya, Japan

Atsuta Jingu, one of Japan's most sacred shrines, is home to the legendary Kusanagi sword and offers a serene escape with ancient trees and impressive...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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Atsuta Jingu - red and white striped textile

Atsuta Jingu

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Atsuta Jingu, one of Japan's most sacred shrines, is home to the legendary Kusanagi sword and offers a serene escape with ancient trees and impressive architecture.

4.5
(21k reviews)

"More impressive than I expected, a grand architecture with a peaceful atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Respect Photography Rules

Many inner shrine areas prohibit photography. Be mindful and respectful of these sacred spaces.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the spacious grounds, so wear comfortable shoes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Shrine Hall

Main Shrine Hall

Central grounds

Marvel at the grand architecture and the strikingly large roof of this ancient, yet reconstructed, main hall.

Reddit
Sacred Sword Museum

Sacred Sword Museum

Within shrine grounds

Explore over 6,000 relics, including samurai swords and sacred treasures, though the legendary sword is not displayed.

Instagram+1
Peaceful Forest Paths

Peaceful Forest Paths

Surrounding grounds

Wander through serene paths lined with centuries-old cypress trees, offering a tranquil escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

Atsuta Jingu is a popular spot, especially with locals. To experience its peaceful atmosphere, aim for early mornings or weekdays. Weekends and holidays can get quite busy, so planning ahead can help you avoid the biggest crowds and truly soak in the spiritual ambiance. Reddit

Understanding the Sacred Sword

Atsuta Jingu is famously home to the sacred sword 'Kusanagi no Tsurugi,' one of Japan's Imperial Regalia. While the sword itself is not on public display due to its immense significance, its presence imbues the shrine with a unique historical and spiritual weight. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Tranquil atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temperatures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Atsuta Jingu is one of the most prominent places of worship in Japan! 🇯🇵 ⛩ There are so many shrines to explore in this place and it’s a beautiful walk through nature. 🌲 ⛩ It’s most famous for the Atsuta shrine where the Goddess of sun’s sword is meant to be kept ‘Kusunagi no Tsurugi’. 🗡 ☀️ If you are in Nagoya, this is a must see! 👀 📍1-1, Jingu 1-Chōme Atsuta-Ku, Nagoya, Aichi Japan 456...
ryanlostinculture
0 likes • 1.6K views

🎯 Respect Photography Rules

Many inner shrine areas prohibit photography. Be mindful and respectful of these sacred spaces. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the spacious grounds, so wear comfortable shoes. Instagram

. Atsuta Jingu Shrine is the dates back over 1900 years. This shrine is home of sacred sword “Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi”, one the three Imperial regalia of Japan. It can’t be shown, because of this sword is of great importance in Shintoism. Atsuta Jingu has beautiful shrine buildings. They have 2 museums that has more than 6,000 relics collections, including 177 cultural assets of Japan and Aichi. Als...
anacrowneplaza_nagoya
37 likes • 1.2K views
🇯🇵Ancient swords, quiet paths & a little bit of soul 🌬️ 📍熱田神宮Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Nagoya @visitmyjapan @visitjapanjp #nagoya #japan #atsuta #atsutashrine #travel #ghibli #majestic #maleficent #soul
ms_lui
0 likes • 1.1K views

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

Don't miss the cafe on-site for some tasty local delights after your visit. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is available and free, with staff to help manage traffic flow. Reddit

【熱田神宮/ATSUTA JINGU SHRINE】 いつかは蓬莱軒のひつまぶしと草薙の剣拝観 新年から小笠原父島のヨージさんと熱田でニアミス! @youji24 📍〒456-8585 愛知県名古屋市熱田区神宮1丁目1−1 https://maps.app.goo.gl/8hVmuWyuBc54QAtm9?g_st=ic 日本🇯🇵各地と地元の多摩川と海と山の魅力を発信しています👇 有益な情報、穴場はぜひ、右側の保存タグお願いします @kuwatarousimonaka #名古屋 #熱田神宮 #熱田 #NAGOYA #tripjapan #travel #trip #visitjapan #shrine #神社
kuwatarousimonaka
79 likes • 5.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Respect Photography Rules

Many inner shrine areas prohibit photography. Be mindful and respectful of these sacred spaces. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the spacious grounds, so wear comfortable shoes. Instagram

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

Don't miss the cafe on-site for some tasty local delights after your visit. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is available and free, with staff to help manage traffic flow. Reddit

🙏 Goshuin Etiquette

If you're collecting Goshuin (temple stamps), pay your respects first before requesting one. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(21k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by Atsuta Jingu's unexpected grandeur and peaceful atmosphere, finding it a serene escape within Nagoya. While the legendary sword isn't visible, the historical significance, ancient trees, and impressive architecture leave a lasting positive impression. Some note the lack of English signage, contributing to a more local feel.

"Came to Atsuta Jingu just to “check in” at one of Nagoya’s most famous landmarks, but it turned out more impressive than I expected.

I am not usually into shrines, yet the grand architecture, with its strikingly large roof, truly impressive.

The grounds are home to centuries-old trees, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

The shrine’s history stretches back about 1,900 years, and while the current buildings are reconstructions, they still carry a strong sense of tradition and timeless beauty.

Many inner shrine areas do not allow photography, so please be mindful.

Parking is free, with staff on-site to coordinate traffic."

Leh Ping

"I had the opportunity to visit Atsuta Jingu, the sacred shrine of Nagoya.

If you ever visit Nagoya, one place you shouldn’t miss is Atsuta Jingu, an ancient shrine with a history of over 1,900 years. It is one of the most important shrines in Japan, as it enshrines Kusanagi no Tsurugi, one of the three sacred treasures of the Japanese imperial regalia.

The moment you step into the shrine grounds, you can feel the peaceful and serene atmosphere. Centuries-old trees surround the area, creating a calming environment. Despite being located in a bustling city, entering this place feels like stepping into another world.

Atsuta Shrine is deeply revered, especially among the Japanese, who often come here to pray for good fortune, protection, and success in life. The shrine features worship areas and a grand torii gate, a symbolic element of Shinto shrines.

I am truly delighted to have visited this remarkable place and to have experienced the beauty and deep cultural heritage of Japan."

Waan

"Atsuta-jingu is a peaceful area in the heart of Nagoya full of natural beauty. All Shinto shrines honor nature and this one is must see as it houses one of three imperial objects - the sword. However, it is not on display. Enjoy a nice walk through its spacious grounds and don’t miss the cafe with some tasty delights."

Ray O'Connor

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Ancient trees
Grand architecture

What People Dislike

Limited English signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Atsuta Jingu is easily accessible from Nagoya Station. Take the JR Tokaido Line to Atsuta Station (about 5 minutes) or the Meitetsu Nagoya Line to Jingu-mae Station (about 10 minutes). Both stations are a short walk from the shrine. TikTok

Yes, you can take the Meijo Subway Line to Jingunishi Station, which is also a short walk from the shrine. This offers another convenient option for reaching Atsuta Jingu. Instagram

Yes, Atsuta Jingu offers free parking for visitors. Staff are usually on-site to help direct traffic, making it a convenient option if you're arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, Atsuta Jingu is a great option for a short visit to Nagoya. It's easily accessible and you can experience its serene atmosphere and main attractions within a couple of hours. Reddit

For a more local feel, consider taking the Meitetsu Line to Jingu-mae Station. Many locals use this route, and it offers a glimpse into daily life around the shrine. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the main grounds of Atsuta Jingu is free. However, there is a fee to enter the Treasure House (museum). Instagram

Atsuta Jingu is generally open from early morning until evening. The Treasure House has specific operating hours, typically from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most current information. Instagram

Yes, there is a small admission fee to enter the Treasure House, which houses many of the shrine's artifacts. The main shrine grounds are free to enter. Instagram

Yes, you can obtain a beautifully hand-drawn Goshuin at Atsuta Jingu. Remember to pay your respects at the shrine before requesting one. Reddit

Atsuta Jingu hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Atsuta Matsuri in June, which features fireworks and a night market. Check their official calendar for event dates. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Atsuta Jingu is most famous for being the resting place of the sacred sword 'Kusanagi no Tsurugi,' one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan. Instagram+1

No, the sacred sword 'Kusanagi no Tsurugi' is not on public display due to its immense historical and spiritual importance. Instagram

Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful and serene, with a calming environment created by centuries-old trees and the spiritual significance of the shrine. InstagramReddit

While photography is restricted in some inner areas, the grand architecture of the main hall, the serene forest paths, and the torii gates offer beautiful photo opportunities. Reddit

While it's a popular landmark, many visitors note that it feels like a very local experience, with fewer English speakers and many Japanese visitors coming to pray. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on the shrine grounds that offers tasty delights. Additionally, the surrounding area has various local eateries and restaurants. Reddit

The area offers typical Nagoya cuisine, including hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice). The shrine's cafe also provides refreshments. Instagram

There is a cafe located within the shrine grounds where you can enjoy refreshments and light meals. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grand main shrine buildings, the serene walking paths surrounded by ancient trees, and the iconic torii gates are excellent for photography. InstagramReddit

No, photography is generally not allowed inside the Treasure House to protect the artifacts. Always check for signage indicating photo restrictions. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Atsuta Jingu offers a peaceful and educational experience for families. The spacious grounds provide room for children to explore, and the ancient trees create a natural playground. While the main shrine is serene, the Treasure House can be interesting for older children curious about history and ancient artifacts, including swords. Instagram+1

Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as options within the shrine are limited to a cafe. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking. The free parking is a bonus for families traveling by car. While the shrine is generally quiet, younger children might enjoy the open spaces more than the solemnity of the prayer areas. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, Atsuta Jingu is an ideal destination to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and find a moment of peace. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere is perfect for quiet contemplation and personal reflection. InstagramReddit

Recommendations for solo visitors: Take your time exploring the grounds and the museum. Consider purchasing a Goshuin as a unique memento of your visit. The local feel of the shrine, with fewer English speakers, can offer a more authentic experience. Reddit

⛩️ Culture & History Enthusiasts

Atsuta Jingu is a pilgrimage site for anyone interested in Japanese history and Shintoism. Its status as the home of the Kusanagi no Tsurugi, one of the Imperial Regalia, makes it historically significant. Instagram+1

Must-dos for enthusiasts: Visit the Treasure House to see historical artifacts, including ancient swords. Learn about the legends surrounding the Kusanagi no Tsurugi. Observe the traditional Shinto rituals performed by locals, offering insight into Japanese spiritual practices. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Kusanagi no Tsurugi

Atsuta Jingu's profound importance in Japanese culture stems from its role as the custodian of the Kusanagi no Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword). This legendary sword is one of the Three Imperial Regalia of Japan, alongside the Yata no Kagami (mirror) and the Yasakani no Magatama (jewel). According to legend, the sword was discovered by the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto in the tail of an eight-headed serpent (Yamata no Orochi) and later passed down through generations. Its presence at Atsuta Jingu makes it one of the most sacred Shinto shrines in the country. Instagram+1

While the sword itself is a deeply revered object and is never put on public display, its spiritual essence is believed to permeate the shrine. Visitors come to Atsuta Jingu not just to admire its architecture and natural beauty, but also to connect with this ancient history and the spiritual power associated with the Kusanagi no Tsurugi. The shrine's Treasure House offers a glimpse into this history, displaying numerous artifacts, including ancient swords and other treasures, that hint at the shrine's long and storied past. Instagram

The shrine's connection to the Imperial family and its role in Shinto mythology underscore its status as a site of national importance. The continuous veneration of the Kusanagi no Tsurugi for nearly two millennia highlights the enduring power of tradition and belief in Japan. Visiting Atsuta Jingu is an opportunity to witness a living piece of Japanese history and spirituality. Reddit

Experiencing the Serenity of Atsuta Jingu

Beyond its historical significance, Atsuta Jingu is celebrated for its remarkably peaceful and serene atmosphere. Despite being located within the bustling city of Nagoya, stepping onto the shrine grounds feels like entering a different realm. This tranquility is largely attributed to the centuries-old cypress trees that form a lush canopy, creating a natural sanctuary that muffles the city's noise and invites contemplation. InstagramReddit

Many visitors, even those not typically drawn to shrines, are struck by the grand architecture and the overall sense of calm. The spacious grounds encourage leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and the spiritual ambiance. Some visitors even find spots within the grounds conducive to practices like energy exercises (Chikung), highlighting the shrine's ability to foster a sense of well-being and connection. Instagram

This blend of natural beauty and spiritual depth makes Atsuta Jingu a must-visit for those seeking a moment of quiet reflection amidst their travels. It's a place where the ancient past meets the present in a harmonious and calming embrace. Reddit

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