📕 Goshuin from visitors
Kumano Kootai Shrine
〒389-0101 長野県北佐久郡軽井沢町峠町1
Located at Usui Pass, this shrine straddles the border between Nagano and Gunma Prefectures. It is recognized as one of the Three Great Kumano shrines in Japan and serves as the chief tutelary deity (Ujigami) of the Karuizawa area.
Enshrined deities
Amaterasu Omikami
History
According to tradition, the shrine's origins date back to when Emperor Yamato Takeru, lost on his return journey from an eastern campaign, was guided safely by the Yatagarasu (eight-legged crow) and enshrined the Kumano deities in gratitude. In 1868 (Keio 4), the shrine was renamed Kumano Kootai Shrine. The Nagano Prefecture side functions as the chief tutelary deity of Karuizawa. Because the shrine grounds lie on the border between Nagano and Gunma Prefectures, they are currently managed as separate religious corporations for each prefecture.
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What visitors say
Situated on the border between Nagano and Gunma Prefectures, the shrine is characterized by its unique architecture with buildings split left and right. Prayers for pet health and a variety of Goshuin (calligraphic seal stamps) are popular. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting the Okumiya (inner sanctuary). During peak seasons, surrounding roads and parking lots become extremely congested, so it is recommended to arrive with plenty of time.
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 – 16:00
- Tuesday: 9:00 – 16:00
- Wednesday: 9:00 – 16:00
- Thursday: 9:00 – 16:00
- Friday: 9:00 – 16:00
- Saturday: 9:00 – 16:00
- Sunday: 9:00 – 16:00
口コミ (...件)

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