A Complete Guide to Visiting Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya: Must-See Spots and Model Course - Japan Travel Sights

A Complete Guide to Visiting Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya: Must-See Spots and Model Course

Atsuta Shrine, known for enshrining the sacred Kusanagi no Tsurugi sword, is a revered site in Japan.

With a history of over 1,900 years, this shrine has been a place of worship for warriors like Oda Nobunaga.

This guide introduces you to a model course for visiting Atsuta Shrine, highlighting the key spots you shouldn’t miss.

About Atsuta Shrine

Located near Jingū-mae and Atsuta stations in Nagoya, Atsuta Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines.

The shrine grounds span approximately 190,000 square meters, housing the main shrine, auxiliary shrines, and more, totaling 45 shrines in all.

Top 3 Highlights of Atsuta Shrine

  1. Enshrinement of the Sacred Kusanagi no Tsurugi Sword
    The Kusanagi no Tsurugi is one of Japan’s three imperial regalia, symbolizing the emperor’s authority. Mentioned in ancient texts such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, this sword was said to have been used by the legendary hero Yamato Takeru. The other two regalia, a mirror and a jewel, are enshrined in Ise Shrine and the Imperial Palace, respectively.
  2. Nobunaga’s Donated Wall
    Oda Nobunaga, a famous samurai, prayed for victory at Atsuta Shrine before the Battle of Okehazama. After his victory, he donated a wall to the shrine, which still stands today.
  3. Collection of Cultural Treasures
    The shrine houses about 6,000 artifacts donated by the Imperial family and samurai leaders. Among these, 178 items are designated as national treasures or cultural properties of Aichi Prefecture.

Model Course: Exploring the Shrine Grounds

A leisurely two-hour walk through Atsuta Shrine’s vast grounds reveals its historical spots and cultural treasures. Consider joining a free guided tour, available on weekends and holidays from 10 AM to 3 PM.

  1. Main Gate and Approach
    The shrine’s main gate marks the entrance to its sacred grounds. Walking along the approach, you’ll feel a sense of solemnity as you enter the lush, green environment.
  2. Chozuya (Purification Fountain)
    Before praying, visitors purify themselves with water from the Chozuya. The correct method involves rinsing your left hand, then your right, followed by rinsing your mouth with water poured into your left hand.
  3. Treasure Hall
    The Treasure Hall exhibits the shrine’s collection of swords, ancient documents, and mirrors, with displays changing monthly. Notable items include:
  • [National Treasure] Tantō Rai Kunitoshi: A dagger forged by the master swordsmith Rai Kunitoshi around 700 years ago.
  • [Important Cultural Property] Shōchikukaku-mon Hachiryō Kyō (Mirror): A mirror from the Muromachi period depicting a scene of longevity.
  • [Important Cultural Property] Nihon Shoki: The oldest surviving chronicle of Japan.
  • Wooden Bugaku Mask: A beautiful mask used in Bugaku, a traditional court dance.

Giant Camphor Tree


The sacred camphor tree, over 1,000 years old, stands with a trunk circumference of about 7 meters and a height of 20 meters. It is believed to have been planted by the famous monk Kōbō Daishi.

Nobunaga’s Wall


The wall donated by Oda Nobunaga after his victory at the Battle of Okehazama still stands on the southern side of the shrine grounds.

Shimizu Shrine


Shimizu Shrine is dedicated to the goddess of water, Mizuha-no-Mikoto, known for granting wishes. The spring water here is said to enhance beauty when applied to the skin.

Main Shrine


The main shrine, which enshrines the Kusanagi no Tsurugi, was rebuilt in 1893 in a style similar to Ise Shrine. This sacred space radiates a powerful and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Additional Spots Within the Shrine Grounds

Hakken Shrine


Known for victory prayers, Hakken Shrine was established in 708 and was revered by samurai, including Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Kusunomimae Shrine


Dedicated to safe childbirth, Kusunomimae Shrine is worshiped by women seeking blessings for a smooth delivery.

Kamichikama Shrine


Known for academic success, this shrine is popular with students praying for good exam results.

Sword Treasury Kusunagikan

Opened in October 2021, Kusunagikan is a museum dedicated to the shrine’s collection of swords.

Visitors can view over 450 swords, including national treasures, and experience the weight of a Japanese sword.

Dining: Enjoy Nagoya Cuisine at Atsuta Shrine

After your visit, try the local specialty, Miya Kishimen, at the shrine’s restaurant. This smooth, chewy noodle dish is a favorite among visitors.

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