Mizutani Shrine

What it is

• A Shinto shrine in Yabu City dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami.
• Designated as a Myojin Taisha in the ancient Engishiki Jinmeicho records.
• The shrine was relocated to its current site in the year 1710.
• The grounds include the main hall and four smaller branch shrines.

What to see

• The main hall built in the traditional Ikken-sha Nagare-zukuri architectural style.
• A worship hall that was constructed on June 17, 1909.
• Twelve men performing the Hiyara Dance while holding bamboo sticks.
• Nettei Sumo, a ritual wrestling performance held without a ring or referee.

When to go

• The annual festival is held on Sports Day in October.
• Visit during the festival to see the nationally selected intangible folk cultural properties.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.