A Shrine Deeply Connected to the Sea
Susa Shrine stands on the southern side of Arida City, on the slope of Mount Nakao. Facing south, the shrine occupies a hillside overlooking the surrounding landscape. According to tradition, the shrine was originally located at the summit of the mountain.
Because the original site commanded a view of the sea, a powerful legend developed around the shrine. It was said that ships sailing offshore could be wrecked if they failed to show respect to the deity. As a result, the shrine was eventually moved to its present location.
These traditions helped establish Susa Shrine as a place of worship for safe sea voyages and protection from misfortune. Before World War II, it was also revered as a deity associated with victory and military success, while after the war it came to be worshipped as a protector of road and traffic safety. For the people of the Kii Peninsula, whose lives have long been closely connected with the sea, Susa Shrine has served as a guardian for generations.
Susanoo-no-Mikoto and the World of Japanese Mythology
The principal deity enshrined at Susa Shrine is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, one of the best-known gods in Japanese mythology. Susanoo is often portrayed as a powerful and sometimes fierce deity, but he is also associated with fertility, renewal, and the forces of nature.
The Kii region was once believed to have a close connection with the mythical Ne-no-Kuni, or “Land of Roots,” a mysterious realm described in Japanese mythology. Because of this ancient belief, the Kii Peninsula has long been regarded as a region deeply connected with Susanoo worship. Susa Shrine is thought to have been one of the important centers of this ancient tradition.
Another important figure associated with the region is Isotakeru-no-Mikoto, traditionally regarded as a son of Susanoo. According to legend, Isotakeru and his sisters brought trees to Japan and spread them throughout the land. This tradition gives Susa Shrine another dimension: in addition to being revered as a guardian of the sea, the shrine is connected with forests, trees, and the blessings of nature.
A History Stretching Back to Ancient Times
The foundation of Susa Shrine is traditionally dated to 713, during the Nara period. However, it is believed that religious practices may have existed at this site even before the shrine was formally established. Some theories suggest that ancient maritime communities known as ama, who lived and worked along the Kii coast, may have worshipped here as early as the Kofun period.
During the Heian period, the shrine received official recognition from the imperial court and was recorded in the Engishiki Jinmyōchō, an important 10th-century register of shrines. Its designation as a Myōjin Taisha demonstrates the high status it held within the religious institutions of ancient Japan.
From the medieval period onward, Susa Shrine also attracted the devotion of warriors and members of the ruling class. It is traditionally associated with historical figures such as Kusunoki Masashige and Emperor Go-Daigo, reflecting the shrine’s continuing importance throughout Japan’s turbulent medieval history.
The shrine nevertheless experienced difficult periods. During the Sengoku period, warfare caused serious damage, and buildings and historical documents were lost. In the Edo period, however, the shrine was rebuilt with the protection of the Kishu Domain. Its traditions and sacred character have continued to be preserved ever since.
Historic Architecture and Highlights of the Grounds
The present main sanctuary was rebuilt during the Edo period and is characterized by its dignified, substantial construction. Although it is based on the Kasuga-zukuri architectural style, the building incorporates distinctive features of its own. Because of its historical and architectural value, the main sanctuary has been designated as a cultural property of Arida City.
Its relatively simple design is nevertheless elegant and dignified, conveying the long history of the shrine. In front of the main sanctuary are the Norito Hall and worship hall, arranged in a traditional and orderly manner.
The shrine grounds also contain numerous sub-shrines and auxiliary shrines dedicated to different deities. Walking through the grounds and visiting these smaller sacred sites offers visitors an opportunity to experience the diversity of Japanese Shinto beliefs.
Walking to the Former Shrine Site
A traditional approach leads from the shrine grounds toward the site of the shrine’s original sanctuary at the summit of the mountain. The walk takes approximately 20 minutes on foot. As you climb the mountain path, you can enjoy the surrounding natural scenery while experiencing the quiet and sacred atmosphere of the forest.
For visitors who enjoy walking and nature, this route provides a deeper connection to the history of Susa Shrine and the landscape in which its ancient traditions developed.
Important Cultural Properties and Sacred Treasures
Susa Shrine preserves a number of valuable historical objects. Among them is the Japanese sword known as “Inshu-jū Kagenaga”, which has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The sword was dedicated to the shrine by Tokugawa Yoshimune during the Edo period. It provides a valuable glimpse into the close relationship between samurai society and religious institutions during this era, when powerful warriors frequently offered weapons and other treasures to shrines as acts of devotion.
In addition to this sword, the shrine has preserved various cultural properties and devotional objects. These treasures make Susa Shrine an especially rewarding destination for visitors interested in Japanese history and traditional culture.
The Powerful Chida Festival
One of the most exciting events associated with Susa Shrine is the annual Chida Festival, held every year on October 14. Also known as the “Fighting Festival,” the event is famous for its energetic and dramatic atmosphere.
The Tai-nage Ritual
The highlight of the festival is the Tai-nage Shinto ritual, during which participants compete to catch a sea bream offered before the deity. According to local belief, the person who successfully obtains the fish will enjoy a year of abundant catches.
Fishermen in particular have traditionally taken part in this spirited competition, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and energy. The festival also features a mikoshi procession, traditional lion dances, and other ceremonies, bringing the entire local community together in celebration.
The Chida Festival is recognized as a cultural property of Arida City and continues to be carefully preserved as an important example of the region’s traditional culture.
Why Visit Susa Shrine?
Susa Shrine offers much more than an opportunity to learn about Japanese mythology and history. Surrounded by nature, its grounds provide a peaceful environment where visitors can step away from the bustle of everyday life and experience a distinctly Japanese spiritual atmosphere.
From the shrine grounds, visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and townscape. The scenery changes with the seasons, making the shrine an appealing destination throughout the year.
Susa Shrine can also be visited together with other attractions in Arida City. Exploring the area’s historic sites, traditional landscapes, citrus orchards, and nearby sections of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes provides a deeper understanding of the culture and natural beauty of the Kii region.
A Historic Shrine Where Sea, Nature, and Faith Meet
Susa Shrine is a remarkable place where ancient faith, Japanese mythology, coastal culture, and natural beauty come together. Its long history as a guardian of the sea reflects the close relationship that the people of the Kii Peninsula have maintained with the ocean for centuries.
The historic main sanctuary, valuable cultural treasures, mountain approach, and lively Chida Festival each reveal a different aspect of the shrine’s character. At the same time, the peaceful atmosphere of the grounds offers visitors a chance to experience the spiritual side of traditional Japan.
When visiting Arida City, consider adding Susa Shrine to your itinerary. Here, you can discover the weight of history, the power of Japanese mythology, and the serene beauty of a sacred place where people, nature, and the sea have been connected for more than a thousand years.