The Atayuta Shrine is one of eight shrines in Hida listed in Engishiki (a detailed description of law and order, events, and worship in the 10th century). The main hall is said to have been built in the early Muromachi Period (1336-1573). It was called “Gongen-gu” during the Edo Period (1603-1868). “Gongen” means incarnation of Buddha, and “gu” means shrine. At the end of the year, during the religious event of purification, people go into the Araki River in front of the shrine, and pray for good health and exorcism.

Location: Kisogaito, Kokufu-cho, Takayama City

Access: about 25 minutes from JR Takayama Station by car