Complete Guide to Atsuta Shrine’s Goshuin (Shrine Seals) | A Thorough Explanation of All 5 Types: Location, Hours, and Fees
Atsuta Shrine, located in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, is a historic shrine that enshrines the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword), one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. This shrine, which attracts 7 million visitors annually, offers several types of goshuin, formally called “Goshin-in” (divine seals).
This article provides a detailed explanation of all five types of goshuin offered at Atsuta Shrine, including their locations, reception hours, fees, and efficient visiting routes.
Atsuta Shrine’s Goshuin are Called “Goshin-in”
At Atsuta Shrine, what is generally called a “goshuin” is referred to as a “Goshin-in.” This is a unique term used at Atsuta Shrine, reflecting its respect for the shrine’s status and traditions.
The sacred seal (Goshuin) is given as proof of worship; it’s not merely a stamp for a pilgrimage, but a cherished symbol of a connection with the deities. The correct procedure is to have it inscribed in your Goshuincho (seal book) after your visit.
There are 5 types of Goshuin available at Atsuta Jingu Shrine
At Atsuta Jingu Shrine, you can receive a total of 5 types of sacred seals: 3 within the shrine grounds and 2 at the subsidiary shrines outside the grounds.
Goshuin available within the shrine grounds (3 types)
1. Goshuin of the Main Shrine (Hongu)
This is the Goshuin of the main shrine (Hongu), the central shrine of Atsuta Jingu. It features the calligraphy and red seal of “Atsuta Jingu.” This is the most basic Goshuin, and it’s common to receive this first when visiting Atsuta Jingu.
Location of Issuance: Main Shrine Office (to the right of the main hall)
Reception Hours: 7:00 AM to around sunset (may vary depending on the season)
Offering Fee: Whatever you feel is appropriate (generally 300-500 yen)
2. Goshuin (Shrine Seal) of Betsugu Hakkengu Shrine
This is the goshuin of Betsugu Hakkengu Shrine, located south of the main shrine. It includes the calligraphy “Hakkengu” or “Betsugu Hakkengu.” Hakkengu Shrine is a separate shrine dedicated to the Aramitama (fierce spirit) of Atsuta-no-Okami and is the second most important shrine after the main shrine.
Location of Issuance: Betsugu Hachikengu Shrine Office
Reception Hours: Approximately 7:30 AM to sunset
Offering Fee: Amount at your discretion (generally 300-500 yen)
3. Goshuin (Shrine Seal) of Kamichikama Shrine
This is the goshuin of Kamichikama Shrine, a subsidiary shrine located in the southeast of the shrine grounds. It includes the calligraphy “Kamichikama Shrine.” It enshrines Otoyo-no-Mikoto, worshipped as the Monju of wisdom, and is popular with worshippers praying for academic success.
Location of Issuance: Kamichigama Shrine Goshuin Office
Reception Hours: Approximately 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Offering Fee: Whatever you feel is appropriate (generally 300-500 yen)
Goshuin (2 types) issued at auxiliary shrines outside the main grounds
4. Goshuin of Takakura Musubi Miko Shrine
This is an auxiliary shrine of Atsuta Jingu Shrine, located approximately 1 km southwest of the main shrine. It features the calligraphy “Takakura Musubi Miko Shrine.” It is an ancient shrine believed to have been located in this area even before the founding of Atsuta Jingu Shrine.
Location: 9-9 Takakura-cho, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya City
Where to receive: Shrine office
Reception hours: 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM (may be absent)
Offering fee: Whatever you feel is appropriate (generally 300-500 yen)
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Atsuta Jingu Shrine, approximately 5 minutes on foot from Nishitakakura Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Meijo Line
5. Goshuin (Shrine Seal) of Hikami Aneko Shrine
This is an auxiliary shrine of Atsuta Jingu Shrine, located approximately 2 km northeast of the main shrine. The seal includes the calligraphy “Hikami Aneko Shrine.” It is a shrine dedicated to the elder sister of Miyasuhime-no-Mikoto, and is believed to bring blessings for matchmaking and safe childbirth.
Location: 1-3, Higamiyama, Odaka-cho, Midori-ku, Nagoya City
Where to receive: Shrine office
Hours of service: 9:00 AM to approximately 4:00 PM (staff may be absent)
Offering fee: What you feel is appropriate (generally 300-500 yen)
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Tokaido Main Line “Odaka Station”
Points to note and manners when receiving a Goshuin (shrine stamp)
Always pray before receiving a Goshuin
A Goshuin is proof of your visit. Do not stop by the office first; always pray before receiving your Goshuin.
Prepare a Goshuincho (stamp book)
Goshuin are generally recorded in a Goshuincho. Recording on memo pads or colored paper may be refused. Atsuta Shrine also offers original Goshuincho; those who do not have one can purchase one.
Prepare small change for the offering
While the offering for the Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) at Atsuta Shrine is “at your discretion,” it’s generally customary to offer 300 to 500 yen. Having small change ready will ensure a smooth process.
Pay attention to reception hours
Reception hours vary depending on the location. Especially for subsidiary shrines outside the main grounds, reception hours are shorter, and the shrine office may be unattended. It’s recommended to check in advance before visiting.
Waiting times may occur during peak hours
During major festivals such as the New Year’s visit period (January 1st-3rd) and the annual festival (June 5th), the shrine becomes extremely crowded, and you may have to wait a long time to receive your Goshuin. Please allow ample time for your visit.
Efficient pilgrimage route to collect all 5 types of Goshuin
Here’s an efficient route to collect all 5 types of Goshuin in one day.
Route to Collect All 3 Types of Shrine Seals
- Enter through the Main Gate (South Gate)
- Visit the Main Shrine (Hongu) → Obtain a Goshuin (shrine stamp) at the Main Shrine’s office
- Visit the Hachikengu Shrine (Betsugu) → Obtain a Goshuin at the Hachikengu Shrine’s office
- Visit the Kamichigama Shrine (Kamichigama Shrine) → Obtain a Goshuin at the Kamichigama Shrine’s office
The three shrines within the grounds are within walking distance, and the estimated time required for visiting and obtaining the Goshuin is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Complete Route Including the Two Outside Shrines
The two outside shrines are located further from Atsuta Jingu, requiring travel by public transport or on foot.
Recommended Route:
- Obtain three types of goshuin stamps at Atsuta Jingu Shrine.
- Walk or take the subway to Takakura Yui Mikoshi Shrine (approx. 15 minutes).
- Take the JR or subway to Hikami Aneko Shrine (approx. 30 minutes).
If you plan to collect all five types in one day, allow approximately 3-4 hours, including travel time.
Atsuta Jingu Shrine’s Original Goshuin Stamp Book
Atsuta Jingu Shrine offers original design goshuin stamp books.
Design Features
- A dignified design featuring the shrine’s crest and the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword) motif in gold on a navy background.
- The cover features the words “Atsuta Jingu” (Atsuta Shrine).
- Standard large size (approximately 18cm x 12cm)
Place of Purchase and Offering Fee
Place of Purchase: Main Shrine Office
Offering Fee: Approximately 1,500 to 2,000 yen (Price for the stamp book only)
If you purchase the stamp book and stamp book together, the offering fee may be slightly discounted.
Basic Information and Access to Atsuta Jingu Shrine
Basic Information
Official Name: Atsuta Jingu Shrine
Deity Enshrined: Atsuta no Okami – A deity whose sacred object is the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi sword in which Amaterasu Omikami resides
Founded: Said to be in the 43rd year of Emperor Keiko’s reign (113 AD)
Main Blessings: National peace and security, family safety, business prosperity, good fortune and happiness
Location: 1-1-1 Jingu, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture 456-8585
Phone Number: 052-671-4151
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from 7:00 AM until sunset)
Official Website: https://www.atsutajingu.or.jp/
Access Method
Access by Train
- Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line “Jingumae Station”: Approximately 3 minutes on foot (nearest station)
- Subway Meijo Line “Jingunishi Station”: Approximately 7 minutes on foot
- Subway Meijo Line “Tenmacho Station”: Approximately 7 minutes on foot
- JR Tokaido Main Line “Atsuta Station”: Approximately 8 minutes on foot
Access by Car
- Approximately 5 minutes from Nagoya Expressway “Hotta Exit”
- Approximately 5 minutes from Nagoya Expressway “Shirakawa Exit”
Parking: Free parking available (capacity of approximately 400 cars)
*During the first three days of the New Year and major festivals, it is recommended to use public transportation due to congestion.
Spots to Visit in Combination with Atsuta Shrine Visit
Atsuta Horaiken (The birthplace of Hitsumabushi)
After visiting Atsuta Shrine, Atsuta Horaiken, famous as a restaurant serving Nagoya’s specialty “Hitsumabushi,” is within walking distance. A long-established restaurant founded in 1873, known as the birthplace of Hitsumabushi (eel rice bowl).
Shiratori Garden
A Japanese garden located about a 15-minute walk from Atsuta Shrine. It’s a pond-centered strolling garden modeled after the topography of the Chubu region, offering beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Atsuta Shrine Cultural Hall Treasure Museum
The treasure museum on the shrine grounds houses approximately 6,000 treasures, including national treasures and important cultural properties, and displays them on a rotating basis.
Information on Goshuin (Shrine Seals) on Special Days
Special Service for the Annual Festival (Atsuta Festival)
The annual festival (Atsuta Festival), held on June 5th every year, is the most important festival at Atsuta Shrine. Due to the large number of visitors on this day, there may be a wait for Goshuin.
Service During the New Year’s Visit Period
The first three days of the New Year are the busiest time of the year, with approximately 2.3 million visitors. While Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) are available, there may be long waiting times. For a smoother visit, we recommend visiting after January 4th.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Are the Goshuin pre-printed, or are they written directly in your Goshuin book?
A. Generally, they are written directly in your Goshuin book. However, during busy periods or festivals, pre-printed stamps may be used.
Q2. Is it possible to collect all five types of Goshuin in one day?
A. It is possible, but since the two subsidiary shrines outside the main grounds are far from Atsuta Jingu, we recommend planning for 3-4 hours, including travel time.
Q3. If I forget my Goshuin book, can I buy one on the spot?
A. Yes, you can purchase an original Atsuta Jingu Goshuin book at the main shrine’s reception area.
Q4. Do you offer Goshuin by mail?
A. Atsuta Jingu does not offer Goshuin by mail. You need to visit the shrine in person to receive the goshuin (temple/shrine stamp).
Q5. The offering fee is “at your discretion,” but how much should I offer specifically?
A. Generally, most people offer 300 to 500 yen. Since it’s at your discretion, more is also acceptable.
Summary: Enjoy collecting goshuin at Atsuta Shrine
At Atsuta Shrine, you can receive a total of five types of goshuin called “Goshinin” (sacred seals). Three types—from the main shrine, the separate shrine Hachikengu, and the Kamichigama Shrine—can be collected relatively quickly. Including the auxiliary shrines outside the main grounds, Takakura Musubi Mikoshi Shrine and Hikami Aneko Shrine, allows you to experience the history and culture around Atsuta Shrine more deeply.
Goshuin are not just commemorative stamps; they are proof of a connection with the gods. Visit the shrine respectfully and receive your Goshinin with gratitude.
Enjoy a memorable pilgrimage and collect Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) at the historic Atsuta Shrine, which enshrines the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan.
