Suwa Taisha Shrine 諏訪大社

Suwa Taisha Shrine is located in Kamisuwa, south of Lake Suwa. 

It’s one of the oldest shrines and known for Onbashira Festival (御柱祭) which takes place every six years.

The trees are magnificent; the one on the right which people are looking up is the largest tree of its kind in Suwa area.

Three pine trees worshipped by many.

The day I visited, there was a wedding ceremony. The music was holy and the mood was ceremonial.

There is a museum and a shop where you can purchase lucky charms for health, prosperity, good luck for entrance exam and etc.

Before entering the shrine, one should purify by rinsing one’s hands and mouth. This water fountain is particularly nice because it’s hot spring water, quite nice and warm!

Outside of the shrine, there is a sumo ring. 

There is usually a place where you can burn the old lucky charms or fallen leaves.

The smoke makes the scenery more dramatic!

There is a cafe just outside of the shrine. The architecture looks great and the view must be spectacular. I have not yet seen from inside, since it’s always closed every time I visit the shrine...