Atsuta Jingu (Atsuta Shrine) | Review by wendy

Atsuta Jingu (Atsuta Shrine)

The shrine that houses the sacred sword mentioned in “Kojiki” and “Nihon Shoki” (Chronicles of Japan including myths, legends, songs, genealogies and oral traditions).

3 Sep 2026 See More

With over 1,900 years of history, Atsuta Jingu is one of Japan's most important shrines. It is said to house the Kusanagi Sword, one of the Three Sacred Treasures of the Japanese imperial family, and is also mentioned in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki.

What I liked most when entering the shrine grounds was the atmosphere, which felt completely different from the city. Towering old trees and lush greenery make the entire grounds quiet and solemn. Walking around naturally makes you slow down and clear your mind.

This is also one of Nagoya's most iconic spiritual spots. Besides praying for blessings, it's also a great place to take a walk and experience history and Japanese shrine culture.

Other Reviews by wendy

Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave

Carved into the southern part of Ishigaki Island in the Yaeyama Islands, the Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave is the southernmost tourist-accessible limestone cave in Japan. Formed over 200,000 years, this natural masterpiece spans 3.2 km, making it the largest cave on Ishigaki Island.
- Miyako, Yaeyama (Ishigaki Island), Kume Islands
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Walking into Ishigaki Island's largest limestone cave feels like instantly entering a fantasy world created by nature. Admission is about JPY 1,200, and it takes around 20–30 minutes to walk through the cave. Some sections are fairly narrow, and the cave is dim with damp ground in places, so keep a close eye on children. It's also not very suitable for strollers.

Along the way, you can admire natural formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. The farther you go, the more spectacular it feels, and you can't help but marvel at nature's craftsmanship.

Although the visit isn't very long, it's well worth fitting into your itinerary. Walk into the underground world yourself and experience a different side of Ishigaki Island's natural beauty!
Ishigaki City Public Market

Located in the heart of Ishigaki Island’s bustling Euglena Mall, the Ishigaki City Public Market is a three-story hub that serves both locals and visitors as the island’s go-to spot for fresh goods and souvenirs. For locals, it’s a daily marketplace akin to their kitchen; for tourists, it’s the perfect place to find authentic local products.
- Miyako, Yaeyama (Ishigaki Island), Kume Islands
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When visiting Ishigaki Island, of course you should explore this historic "island kitchen." The market has all kinds of Ishigaki Island specialties, souvenirs, and local ingredients. It's a good place to walk around if you want to experience the atmosphere of local life.

I came on a weekday morning, and the entire market was fairly quiet. Most shops didn't start opening until around 11, with only a few preparing to open. The market is especially peaceful in the morning, so you can browse at your own pace without the crowds.

If you want to buy some Ishigaki Island specialties or experience the atmosphere of a local market, it's worth stopping by. However, I recommend coming closer to noon, when more shops will be open!
Ishigaki Yaima Village

Ishigaki Yaima Village is a theme park located on a hill overlooking the famous Nagura Bay, where visitors can immerse themselves in the nature and culture of Ishigaki Island. Historic houses, over 100 years old, have been relocated to this lush setting, faithfully recreating the charm of Yaeyama life from days gone by.
- Miyako, Yaeyama (Ishigaki Island), Kume Islands
- Amusement Parks & Theme parks
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If you're visiting Ishigaki Island and want to experience Okinawan traditional culture and natural scenery all in one place, consider stopping by Ishigaki Yaima Village. The grounds aren't very large and can be explored in about an hour. There are several preserved traditional buildings, Ryukyu traditional clothing you can try on for a fee, and traditional performances at scheduled times, giving the place a strong Yaeyama atmosphere.

Overall, the grounds are relaxing and easy to explore. If you want to experience the local culture, wear Ryukyu clothing, or watch traditional performances, it's worth adding as a stop along the way. You can also compare ticket prices on Trip.com or KLOOK beforehand, since buying online is sometimes cheaper than purchasing tickets on-site!