Aso Shrine

Aso Shrine is a shrine in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture, and the head shrine of about 500 Aso Shrines across Japan. It has around 2,300 years of history and enshrines 12 deities, also known as the “Aso Twelve Myojin.” Many festivals are held, including Aso agricultural rites designated as Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties. The famous two-story gate (one of Japan’s three greatest) is under reconstruction due to earthquake damage. Recently, it has also become known for the dramatic “Hifuri Shinji,” a ritual celebrating a divine wedding. The Omotesando (a rare sideways approach path) is lined with shops selling Kumamoto sweets like kaiten manju, so it’s worth checking out. The shrine also offers thoughtful touches such as “good luck omikuji” that many women enjoy. The “wish stone” is also famous as a power spot. Next to the shrine is a spring called “Mizuki,” known as water for longevity, which anyone can drink. Access: take a bus from Miyaji Station for about 5 minutes. Nearby Kunatsukuri Shrine is also close and can be visited together.