Susa Shrine (Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture) Complete Guide | History of Ana Myoken, one of the Eight Scenic Views of Hirado, and Goshuin Information
Susa Shrine, located in Takanashi-cho, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is a nationally rare shrine with its main hall built in a natural sea cave. Also known as “Ana Myoken” and “Iwayagu,” it is designated as one of the Eight Scenic Views of Hirado and a nationally designated scenic spot, “Hirado-ryo Chiho Hachikatsu” (Eight Scenic Views of the Hirado Domain). This article provides a detailed introduction to Susa Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, highlights, access methods, and Goshuin information.
History and Origins of Susa Shrine
One of Sasebo’s Oldest Shrines
While the exact founding date of Susa Shrine is unknown, it is considered one of the oldest shrines in Sasebo City, which was a small, rural village with a mix of farming and fishing until the early Meiji period. The fact that this site existed as an object of worship even before the region’s development is an important element in understanding the local history.
Faith from the Sengoku Period
The sea cave, approximately 10 meters wide, 10 meters deep, and 20 meters long, was already an object of worship during the Sengoku period (Warring States period). Of particular note is the record that Matsuura Shigenobu, the lord of the Hirado domain, visited the site to pray for victory during the Bunroku-Keicho War (the Japanese invasions of Korea).
In 1596 (Keicho 1), Matsuura Takanobu (Hizen-no-kami) returned from the Korean campaign, and in August of the following year, 1597 (Keicho 2), he visited the shrine to report his victory and planted a Japanese cypress tree as a memento. This sacred tree still remains on the shrine grounds today, bearing witness to over 400 years of history.
The Eight Scenic Views of Hirado and a Nationally Designated Place of Scenic Beauty
In 1847 (Koka 4), Matsuura Hiromu, the 10th lord of the Hirado Domain, selected eight outstanding scenic spots located around the Hirado Highway and established the “Eight Scenic Views of the Hirado Domain.” The Iwaya-no-miya (cave shrine) of Susa Shrine was chosen as one of them and became widely known as one of the Eight Scenic Views of Hirado.
Recognizing its historical and cultural value, Susa Shrine has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. The landscape, a fusion of natural beauty and religious significance, has continued to fascinate many people from the Edo period to the present day.
The Origin of the Current Shrine Building
Around 1955 (Showa 30), the worship hall was built to enclose the natural cave. This unique architectural style protects the mystical cave space behind the worship hall, and allows worshippers to offer prayers in a special space integrated with the cave.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Main Deity: Susanoo-no-Mikoto
The main deity of Susa Shrine, from which the shrine’s name originates, is Susanoo-no-Mikoto. In Japanese mythology, he is known as a heroic god who, after being banished from Takamagahara, defeated Yamata-no-Orochi in Izumo Province and saved Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto.
Susanoo-no-Mikoto is widely worshipped as a god of protection against misfortune, disaster, and disease, and is also revered as the guardian deity of agriculture and fishing. In Sasebo, a coastal area, he is also deeply revered by those involved in the fishing industry who pray for maritime safety and abundant catches.
Enshrined Deities
At Susa Shrine, the following deities are enshrined alongside Susanoo-no-Mikoto:
- Okuninushi-no-Mikoto: God of matchmaking, business prosperity, and abundant harvests
- Kotoshironushi-no-Kami: God of business prosperity and maritime safety
- Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto: Wife of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, goddess of marital harmony and family safety
- Suseribime-no-Mikoto: Daughter of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, wife of Okuninushi-no-Mikoto
- Amenominakanushi-no-Mikoto: Originating deity of the universe
- Amaterasu-Omikami: Sun goddess, supreme deity of Japan
- Takamimusubi-no-kami: One of the creator gods
- Kamimusubi-no-kami: One of the creator gods
By enshrining these gods, Susa Shrine is revered as a shrine that bestows various divine blessings, including protection from evil, family safety, business prosperity, matchmaking, and maritime safety.
Highlights of Susa Shrine
Natural Cave “Iwaya-no-miya”
The most distinctive feature of Susa Shrine is the natural sea cave that spreads out behind the main hall. The cave, approximately 5.4 meters wide and 10.8 meters deep, is called “Iwaya-no-miya” or “Anamyoken” and has been revered as a sacred place since ancient times.
The natural rock face remains intact inside the cave, and the cool air and unique silence envelop visitors. Because the main hall is built to fill the cave, visitors can directly feel the mystical atmosphere of the cave. This space, a fusion of nature and artificiality, offers a special experience unlike any other shrine.
A Sacred Tree (Japanese Pine) Over 400 Years Old
Within the shrine grounds stands a giant Japanese pine tree, planted in 1597 by Matsuura Takanobu, the lord of the Hirado domain. This sacred tree, over 400 years old, is a living witness to the long history of Susa Shrine, deeply moving visitors.
The Japanese pine is an evergreen tree, and its lush green appearance is considered a symbol of vitality. Touching this sacred tree, which has watched over this land from the Sengoku period to the present day, will allow you to feel the romance of history.
The Scenic Beauty of the Eight Views of Hirado
Susa Shrine is also a scenic spot selected as one of the Eight Views of Hirado. The natural landscape surrounding the shrine has maintained its beauty since the Edo period, displaying different expressions throughout the seasons.
In particular, the unique landscape where the cave and shrine are integrated is a symbol of Japanese culture, where the beauty of nature’s formations and people’s faith merge, and it has captivated many photography enthusiasts and history buffs.
Atmosphere of the Shrine Grounds
Despite being located in a residential area, the shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere. Passing through the torii gate and climbing the stone steps, a sacred space transcending time unfolds. Despite its compact size, it is a special place where you can feel the mystery of the cave and the weight of history.
Access and Parking Information
Basic Information
- Location: 1-9 Takanashi-cho, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0956-23-3657
- Nearest Station: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Nakasasebo Station on the Matsuura Railway Nishikyushu Line
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office hours are irregular)
Access by Train
Transfer to the Matsuura Railway Nishikyushu Line from JR Sasebo Station and get off at Nakasasebo Station. The shrine is approximately a 15-minute walk from the station. The route goes through a residential area, so it is recommended to check the route in advance using a map app.
Access by Car
Approximately 10 minutes from the Sasebo Chuo Interchange on the Nishikyushu Expressway. It is conveniently located and easily accessible from downtown Sasebo.
Parking Information
While Susa Shrine has parking spaces for visitors, some visitors have reported that they are somewhat difficult to find as they are located within a residential area. There are also monthly parking lots around the shrine, and it can be difficult to distinguish them from the visitor parking, so caution is advised.
Since parking spaces are limited, we recommend using public transportation if possible. If you visit by car, please park respectfully and avoid inconveniencing local residents.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Information
Goshuin Issuance Information
Susa Shrine offers goshuin (shrine seals), but there may not always be a resident priest. If you want to be sure to receive a goshuin, we recommend calling ahead to inquire.
Characteristics of the Goshuin
The goshuin from Susa Shrine features the calligraphy of “Susa Shrine” and the shrine’s seal. It may also include the alternative names, Ana Myoken and Iwaya-miya, reflecting the unique characteristics of this shrine.
For those collecting Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps), the Goshuin from this unique shrine built in a natural cave will surely become a special memory.
Points to Note When Visiting
Clothing and Items to Bring When Visiting
The temperature inside the cave may be lower and the humidity higher than in a typical shrine. It can feel particularly cool even in summer, so it’s a good idea to bring something to wear over your clothes. Also, since there are stone steps, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds and cave, but as a matter of courtesy, please be considerate of other visitors and avoid disturbing them. The cave is a sacred space, so please take photos with respect.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Susa Shrine is close to Sasebo city center, making it easy to visit in conjunction with Sasebo burgers and other local cuisine, as well as tourist attractions such as Kujukushima Islands. It’s also recommended to stop by on your way to Hirado.
Annual Events at Susa Shrine
Susa Shrine holds various Shinto rituals throughout the year. The main events include the following:
- New Year’s Day Festival (January 1st): A Shinto ritual celebrating the New Year
- Spring Grand Festival: A festival praying for a bountiful spring harvest
- Summer Purification Ceremony (June 30th): A Shinto ritual purifying oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past six months
- Autumn Grand Festival: A festival giving thanks for the autumn harvest
- Year-End Purification Ceremony (December 31st): A Shinto ritual purifying oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past year
Festival dates may change from year to year, so it is recommended to inquire with the shrine in advance if you wish to participate.
Susa Shrine’s Faith and Connection to the Community
As a Guardian Deity of the Community
Susa Shrine has long been revered by the local residents as the tutelary deity of Takanashi-cho, Sasebo City. Since the days when the village was a mix of farming and fishing, it has remained a place of prayer for bountiful harvests, abundant catches, and family safety.
Even today, many local residents visit Susa Shrine for important life events such as New Year’s visits, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), and exorcisms, and it functions as a central presence in the local community.
Connection to the Sea
Sasebo is a port town facing the sea and has long been a thriving fishing region. Susa Shrine, built in a sea cave, also has characteristics of a sea god and has attracted fervent devotion from those involved in fishing and those praying for safety at sea.
The fierce aspect of Susanoo-no-Mikoto is believed to have the power to calm rough waves and protect safety at sea, and even today, people involved in shipping sometimes visit the shrine.
Relationship between Susa Shrine and Other Susa Shrines
There are several shrines named “Susa Shrine” throughout Japan. The most famous is the Susa Shrine in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, a highly prestigious shrine considered to be the place where Susanoo-no-Mikoto died.
The Susa Shrine in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, shares the commonality of enshrining Susanoo-no-Mikoto as its principal deity, but it possesses the unique characteristic of being built within a natural cave. Susa Shrines throughout Japan function as important centers for transmitting the worship of Susanoo-no-Mikoto in their respective regions.
Significance of Visiting Susa Shrine
Experiencing the Fusion of Nature and Faith
The greatest significance of visiting Susa Shrine lies in experiencing a space where the beauty of natural formations and the faith of the people are fused. You can touch upon the wisdom and reverence of our ancestors who revered the natural blessing of a cave as a sacred place, built a shrine there, and continued their faith.
Feeling the Weight of History
Susa Shrine retains many historical elements, including a history of faith dating back to the Sengoku period, records of visits by the lords of the Hirado domain, and sacred trees over 400 years old. By experiencing these, you can feel the flow of time connecting us, who live in the present, to the past.
Finding Inner Peace
The tranquil space of the cave is ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and finding peace of mind. In the cool air and unique stillness, you can have time to reflect on yourself.
Summary
Susa Shrine in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is a nationally rare shrine built in a natural cave, possessing high historical and cultural value. Designated as a national scenic spot and one of the Eight Views of Hirado, it conveys a history of faith that has continued since the Sengoku period.
With Susanoo-no-Mikoto as its main deity, Susa Shrine bestows various divine blessings, including protection from evil, family safety, and maritime safety. It is a highly revered shrine, attracting many worshippers from within and outside the prefecture.
When you visit Sasebo, be sure to visit Susa Shrine and experience the mystical space of the cave and the weight of its more than 400-year history. This special space, where nature and faith are intertwined, will leave a deep impression on the hearts of visitors.
Nestled quietly within a residential area, Susa Shrine possesses a serene atmosphere and unique charm that will make it an unforgettable place to visit. Come and experience the beauty of the Eight Views of Hirado and the power of ancient faith with your own eyes.
