Aso Shrine

Overview

Aso Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture, in the central part of Kyushu, and the ichinomiya of the former Higo Province. It is the head shrine of some 450 Aso Shrines across Japan and is counted among the oldest shrines in the country. A former imperial shrine of the first rank, it is now a Beppyō shrine of the Association of Shinto Shrines.

Highlights

• ●The ichinomiya of Higo Province and head shrine of about 450 Aso Shrines nationwide
• ●Holds several Important Cultural Properties, including the Ichi-no-shinden, Ni-no-shinden and the rōmon gate
• ●The Aso family, an influential clan since ancient times, has long served as its chief priest
• ●Formerly written 阿蘓神社, a name preserved on a surviving plaque

History

Aso Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and appears as a shikinaisha in the ancient registers. It held the rank of an imperial shrine of the first class and is today a Beppyō shrine of the Association of Shinto Shrines. The Aso family, an influential clan since ancient times, has served as its chief priest across generations.

Map

32.9478, 131.1160 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Take in the shrine buildings and learn the history of the Higo ichinomiya
2. 2Look up at the rōmon gate, an Important Cultural Property
3. 3View the architecture of the main sanctuaries such as the Ichi-no-shinden and Ni-no-shinden
4. 4Explore the surrounding Aso area as well

Did you know?

💡 It is the head shrine of about 450 Aso Shrines across Japan.

Nearby spots