The Araki Shrine is one of eight shrines in Hida listed in Engishiki (a detailed description of law and order in the 10th century). It is not clear when it was built, but it is said that construction began in about the Asuka or Nara Periods (538-710 and 710-794 respectively). The history is very old and 5,000-year-old relics have been found there. The Main Hall was built using a combination of Japanese, Chinese, and Indian styles. The annual festival, held in September, includes Lion Dances dedicated to the god of the shrine.

Location: Miyaji, Kokufu-cho, Takayama City

Access: about 30 minutes from JR Takayama Station by car