Atsuta Shrine
adminHighlights, Access, and How to Enjoy Atsuta Shrine
Located in Atsuta Ward, Nagoya City, Atsuta Shrine is one of Japan’s most important and ancient shrines, enshrining the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Mitsurugi, one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. Surrounded by a 190,000 m² sacred grove, visitors can enjoy worship and tranquil walks in a solemn atmosphere.
Access is excellent: about a 3-minute walk from Meitetsu Jingu-mae Station, 8 minutes from JR Atsuta Station, or 7 minutes from Jingu-Nishi Station on the Subway Meijo Line. Throughout the year, especially for New Year’s visits and festivals, the shrine draws many worshippers.
At the Treasure Hall (Kusanagi-kan), valuable cultural properties such as swords and ancient documents are exhibited on a monthly rotation. Along the approach you’ll find tea houses and famous restaurants serving Nagoya’s specialty hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice), letting you savor both history and local cuisine.
It’s also suitable for group or family visits, and the quiet mornings or evenings are ideal for photography.
Highlights of Atsuta Shrine
Atsuta Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine enshrining the Sacred Sword Kusanagi-no-Mitsurugi as its main deity, affectionately known as “Atsuta-san” since ancient times. Within the grounds you’ll find historic highlights such as the Great Camphor Tree, said to be over 1,000 years old, and the Nobunaga Wall built by Oda Nobunaga.
The Treasure Hall (Kusanagi-kan) houses more than 6,000 items including swords, armor, and ancient documents, with carefully selected pieces on rotating display. The shrine’s approach, wrapped in a tranquil forest, offers seasonal beauty — especially fresh greenery in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn make it ideal for strolling.
The shrine also hosts a rich calendar of annual events. The Atsuta Festival (early June) features fireworks and dedication ceremonies, drawing lively crowds. During the New Year’s season, when it becomes very crowded, early morning visits are recommended.
- Sacred site connected to the Three Sacred Treasures (Kusanagi Sword)
- The millennium-old Great Camphor Tree and historic Nobunaga Wall
- Treasure Hall (Kusanagi-kan) with swords, armor, and ancient documents
- Full calendar of annual events including New Year’s visits and the Atsuta Festival
| Month | Recommendation | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| January | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Lively atmosphere for New Year’s visits. Early mornings feel solemn. |
| February | ⭐⭐⭐ | Visitor numbers settle down, perfect for quiet worship. |
| March | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Fresh greenery begins to sprout, making walks along the approach pleasant. |
| April | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Beautiful contrast of cherry blossoms and new leaves with the shrine buildings. |
| May | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Refreshing weather and a photogenic season. |
| June | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Lively Atsuta Festival. The grove takes on a charming mood in the rain. |
| July | ⭐⭐⭐ | Plenty of shade makes it relatively easy to walk. |
| August | ⭐⭐ | Take precautions against heat. Early mornings and evenings are recommended. |
| September | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Cool breezes allow for calm and relaxed worship. |
| October | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Comfortable strolls along the approach on clear autumn days. |
| November | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Peak autumn foliage, perfect for photography. |
| December | ⭐⭐⭐ | Solemn atmosphere in the quiet of year’s end. |
Recommended Route for Enjoying Atsuta Shrine
1) South Gate (Main Approach)
Begin your visit from the South Gate, conveniently located near Jingu-mae Station. Walk along the gravel approach to center yourself as you head toward the Main Sanctuary. Be sure to bow once when passing through the torii gate.
2) Main Sanctuary (Honden), Offering Hall, and Kaguraden
This is the heart of Atsuta Shrine. Worship with the ritual of two bows, two claps, and one bow, and enjoy a moment of calm in the quiet surroundings. Early mornings, when there are fewer visitors, are especially recommended.
4) Treasure Hall (Kusanagi-kan) (Approx. 40 minutes)
View swords, ancient documents, and other artifacts to experience the history and faith of Atsuta. Since the exhibits change periodically, you’ll discover something new with each visit.
5) Sanshuden & Teahouse Area (Approx. 20 minutes)
After your visit, take a break and enjoy sweets at the teahouses. The area also features renowned restaurants serving hitsumabushi (Nagoya’s famous grilled eel over rice), so you can enjoy local cuisine as well.
Basic Information about Atsuta Shrine
Basic Information about Atsuta Shrine
| Facility Name | Atsuta Shrine (Atsuta Jingu Shrine) |
|---|---|
| Visiting Hours | The shrine grounds are open 24 hours for worship / Treasure Hall 9:00–16:30 (last entry 16:10) |
| Admission Fee | Grounds: Free / Treasure Hall (Kusanagi-kan): Adults ¥500 |
| Notes | The Treasure Hall is closed on the last Wednesday of each month and the following day, and from December 25–31 (please check the official website for the latest information) |
Access to Atsuta Shrine
From Chubu Centrair International Airport
| Transportation | Duration | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Approx. 50–60 min | IC approx. ¥1,300–¥1,600 | Take the Meitetsu Airport Line → Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line to Jingū-mae Station (about 1 transfer) → 3 min walk |
| Bus | Approx. 60–80 min | ¥1,400– | Take the airport limousine bus to Nagoya Station → Transfer to Meitetsu or Subway to reach the shrine |
| Taxi | Approx. 50 min | Approx. ¥15,000 | Convenient for groups or travelers with lots of luggage |
From Nagoya Station
| Transportation | Duration | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meitetsu | Approx. 10 min | IC approx. ¥230–¥300 | From Meitetsu Nagoya Station → Get off at Jingū-mae Station, about 3 min on foot |
| JR | Approx. 6–8 min | IC approx. ¥210–¥300 | Take the JR Tokaido Main Line → Get off at Atsuta Station, about 8 min on foot |
| Subway | Approx. 15–20 min | IC approx. ¥240–¥300 | Take the Subway Meijo Line → Get off at Jingū-nishi Station, about 7 min on foot |
| Taxi | Approx. 15 min | Approx. ¥1,500–¥2,000 | Convenient depending on weather or luggage |
About a 3-minute walk from the nearest Jingū-mae Station (Meitetsu), 8 minutes from Atsuta Station (JR), and 7 minutes from Jingū-nishi Station (Subway Meijo Line). A free parking lot is available on the east side of the grounds (may be full during busy times).
Address: 1-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
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