Shiwahiko Shrine, Shiogama Shrine

Shiogama Shrine is the most prestigious shrine in Mutsu Province, located on a hill overlooking Shiogama Bay.
Although the date of its foundation is unknown, it is known that the shrine had been worshiped since before the Nara period (710-794) based on descriptions in early Heian period (794-1185) documents.
In 2002, the main shrine building, the hall of worship, the four-legged gate (Karamon), and many other structures were designated as National Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
The shrine is composed of two separate shrines, called the "left and right palace worship pavilions," and enshrines the main deity Shiotsuchinooji in the separate shrine, Takemikazuchinokami in the left shrine, and Futsunushinokami in the right shrine.
In addition to the architecture, the Yaezakura cherry tree, called Shiogama-zakura, is also a highlight of the shrine. This historic tree was mentioned in a waka poem by Emperor Horikawa and is used in the shrine's crest.

Shiwahiko Shrine has a long history and is mentioned in the Engi-shiki (detailed enforcement regulations of the Ritsuryo codes) as a large shrine. The shrine was relocated from the Iwakiri district of Sendai City to the premises of Shiogama Shrine during the Meiji period (1868-1912). From outside the shrine gate, a panoramic view of Shiogama Bay, called Chiganoura , stretching beyond the town, can be seen.

The Shiogama Minato Festival , held on the third Monday of July, is one of the largest festivals in the Tohoku region, with the portable shrines of both Shiwahiko Shrine and Shiogama Shrine parading through the city and the sea. Visitors can watch the excitement of carrying the mikoshi, which weighs approximately one ton, and the gorgeous parade on land that enlivens the entire town.