About 1900 years ago, one of the Three Sacred Treasures (in Japanese mythology, the goddess, Amaterasu-Omikami, conferred on them. They were handed down as the proof of imperial succession), Kusanagi-no-tsurugi (sacred sword) , was dedicated here, which is said to be the beginning of this shrine.
There are total of 45 shrines besides the main hall, including separate halls, auxiliary shrines, and subordinate shrines, such as Kamichikama Shrine , where Ema ("picture-horse", a small wooden plaque, in which worshippers write prayers or wishes) are dedicated to pray for passing exams and for academic achievement, and Kusunomimaesha Shrine , which is worshipped by women as the god of safe childbirth. The war lord Oda Nobunaga visited here to pray for a victory before the Battle of Okehazama. It was known for the many believers among war lords. After the victory, Nobunaga dedicated an earthen wall as a token of appreciation, which still stands in front of the main hall.
One of the highlights is the Treasure Hall , which houses many valuable cultural assets and materials. It features a particularly large collection of swords and knives, including the National Treasure Rai Kunitoshi. In addition, there are more than 6,000 cultural assets, such as masks used in sacred dance rituals, displayed on a monthly basis (Contact office about the items on display).
In October 2021, a new sword exhibition facility called the “Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi Museum: The Treasury of Swords” (Ken no Hōko Kusanagikan) opened its doors. The museum showcases around 450 historically significant blades, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, as well as sacred swords that were offered to the gods as prayers since ancient times.
In July of 2021, the surrounding area of Minami-shinike Pond was redesigned as Kusanagi Hiroba (plaza). There is a restaurant serving Nagoya’s famous Kishimen noodles, as well as other rest facilities for visitors.
Highlights
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One of the Three Sacred Treasures, Kusanagi-no-tsurugi (sacred sword) is dedicated here.
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Has a large collection of valuable swords and knives, and the “Treasure Hall” and "Sword Treasury, Kusanagikan” are worth seeing.
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Oda Nobunaga and other war lords worshipped here.
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The vast temple yard is so refreshing to walk around.
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