柴崎神社 Shibasaki Shrine

Historical shrine with rare turtle deity

This shrine is said to be over 1000 years old, dedicated to the star god, Myoken. The shrine is associated with legendary prince Yamato Takeru who is said to have visited to pray for victory. Another famous visitor to the shrine is said to be warlord Taira no Masakado. This rebel attempted an insurrection of the imperial government in the Heian era. Out of respect for the rebel, the shrine was renamed for a location associated with him. As part of the reverence of Myoken, the shrine's object of worship and related sculptures depict turtles which is rare. It's a picturesque spot with tall trees, the deep eaves of the shrine's main hall, and various monuments.