"My mind becomes calm and at peace in nature." When was the last time you had such a mysterious experience?

If you are tired of your busy schedule, you should visit Hotaka Shrine in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture. This shrine is not just a tourist spot, but is a place where the mountains and myths of Shinshu live on, and it has a depth that will impress even experienced travelers. Here are five reasons why you should visit Hotaka Shrine. ⸻ ⛩️Five reasons why you should visit Hotaka Shrine ⸻ ①【A sacred place for mountain worship that enshrines the god of the Japanese Alps】 Hotaka Shrine is an ancient shrine that enshrines Hotakaminomikoto, the guardian deity of the Japanese Alps. It is the center of mountain worship. 📎Trivia: The inner shrine is located at an altitude of 3,180m in Kamikochi, Mount Hotaka, making it one of the highest shrines in Japan! ⸻ ②【Also famous as the god of navigation】 Why the mountain god? You may think so, but in fact, Hotakaminokami is the god of the "Umi-jin people." He is also worshipped as the guardian deity of safe sea travel and travel. 📎**Trivia: A magnificent Mifune (sacred boat)** used in the Mifune Festival is on display in the precincts! ⸻ ③[He is deeply revered by locals as a "god of protection from misfortune"] It is said to have strong benefits in Nagano Prefecture, and many people visit the shrine at turning points in their lives. He is especially famous for praying for safe childbirth and protection from misfortune. 📎Trivia: The main hall is a wooden structure that has remained since the Edo period, and is beautiful in both tranquility and solemnity. ⸻ ④[Visiting the Okumiya Shrine, which connects you to the great nature of Kamikochi] If you have time, be sure to visit the Okumiya Shrine in Kamikochi. The experience of praying in the mirror-like lake and mysterious forest is like going to another world. 📎Trivia: The Okumiya Shrine is located on Myojin Pond, and every October a ritual is held in which a god descends by boat. ⸻ ⑤【Beautiful spring water and mysterious power spot】 The spring water "Goshinsui" in the shrine grounds is known locally as "special water". Just touching the cool, clear water is a healing sensation. 📎**Trivia:** This spring water is meltwater from the Northern Alps. It is said that drinking it will "purify your heart". ⸻ 🏞️Summary Hotaka Shrine is a "sacred place where you can take a deep breath" where nature, faith, and history quietly blend together. Why not take a trip to this place watched over by the mountain god to realign your heart? "Hotaka Shrine" - a hidden gem in Nagano that only those in the know know about. #Nagano #HotakaShrine #DomesticTravel