Futarasan Shrine (二荒山神社, Futarasan Jinja) is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It is part of the “Shrines and Temples of Nikko,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is associated with the Toshogu Shrine complex. Futarasan Shrine is dedicated to the deities of Nikko’s sacred mountains—Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro.
Key features of Futarasan Shrine include:
1. **Three Mountains:** Futarasan Shrine is dedicated to the three sacred mountains of Nikko—Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro. These mountains are considered sacred in Shugendo, a Japanese mountain asceticism practice that blends elements of Shinto and Buddhism.
2. **Sacred Bridge (Shinkyo):** The Shinkyo, or Sacred Bridge, is a striking vermilion-colored bridge located at the entrance of the Futarasan Shrine. It spans the Daiya River and is considered one of the three most beautiful bridges in Japan. The bridge is often used as a symbolic entrance to the sacred area of Nikko.
3. **Main Shrine (Honden):** The main hall of Futarasan Shrine, known as the Honden, is an important religious structure. It houses the enshrined deities and is an essential site for worship and ceremonies.
4. **Red-Lacquered Torii Gates:** Similar to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, Futarasan Shrine features a path lined with red-lacquered torii gates. These gates lead to the inner precincts of the shrine and create a scenic and spiritual atmosphere.
5. **Shrines and Sub-Shrines:** Futarasan Shrine encompasses several smaller shrines and sub-shrines throughout the surrounding area. Each of these is dedicated to different deities and has its own unique cultural and historical significance.
6. **Natural Setting:** The shrine is located in a picturesque setting, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. The natural beauty of the area adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine complex.
7. **Religious Festivals:** Futarasan Shrine is host to various religious festivals throughout the year, celebrating the changing seasons and traditional Shinto ceremonies.
Futarasan Shrine, along with Toshogu Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple, collectively forms the Shrines and Temples of Nikko, a complex that represents the fusion of Shinto and Buddhist elements. The site is renowned for its cultural and historical importance, attracting visitors interested in traditional Japanese religious practices and architecture.
