Air Shrine in Asahimachi, Yamagata Prefecture, is the only shrine in the world whose deity is "air.

  • Yamagata
  • Sightseeing
Photo courtesy of Yamagata Prefecture's official tourism site
Have you ever heard of the "Air Shrine" in Asahimachi, Yamagata Prefecture? It is said to be one of the few shrines in the world that uses "air" as its sacred body, and is attracting a lot of attention. It is also popular as a mysterious shrine where you can take photogenic photos. In this issue, we will introduce "Air Shrine," a place you should visit when you come to Yamagata Prefecture.

Air Shrine" where air is the deity

The "Air Shrine," which enshrines "air," is located in a secluded area at the foot of the Asahi Mountain Range, surrounded by beech forests and rich in nature. On the approach to the shrine, lushly lined with beech trees, there are monuments representing the five elements of "wood, fire, earth, metal, and water," which are the roots of all things.
The approach to the shrine is pleasantly green*Photo provided by Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization

The main shrine where "air" is enshrined, located 3 meters underground

Three meters below the mirror board is the interior of the main hall, which is usually inaccessible. Twelve bottles are housed there, and they make the air of the main shrine resonate with "sound". The light from the mirror and the sound of the main shrine will make you feel the presence of "air" once again.
Twelve bottles echoing the air inside the main shrine*Photo provided by Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization

Let's look up to the heavens in the V pose! How to visit the Air Shrine

The manner of worship is a rare one unique to the Air Shrine.

First, bow deeply twice
● Clap your hands four times while chanting "Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter" in your heart
● Turn both palms inward and look up to the sky in V pose while thanking the air and nature
● Finally, bow deeply once

You may be confused by the unique manners, but if you worship in the correct manner, you can take in the clean air of Asahimachi. However, if you follow the correct etiquette, you will be able to take in the clean air of Asahimachi. The shrine is recommended not only during the lush greenery of summer, but also in the autumn when the leaves turn red! Why don't you enjoy the clean and delicious air of Yamagata Prefecture?
Light pouring down from a heart-shaped sky

Travel to "Air Shrine" on a weekday!

Why don't you enjoy your trip more by taking a budget trip on weekdays?
Accommodations and other facilities are more economical on weekdays than on weekends. If you travel wisely on weekdays, you may be able to visit more places!

It's time for a solo trip at "Air Shrine!

Why don't you go to "Air Shrine" filled with nature to recharge your energy? Breathing in a lungful of fresh air will definitely refresh you! Why not visit this mysterious shrine in Yamagata?
[Official Website] Travel, Weekdays
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