Located in Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture, Nishina Shinmei Shrine is known as Japan's oldest Shinmei-zukuri shrine, boasting a history spanning approximately 500 years. Due to its historical value, the main hall, inner gate, and hanging shack have been designated National Treasures. The main hall, in particular, is extremely valuable as the second oldest Shinmei-zukuri structure, despite being built in the same architectural style as Ise Grand Shrine. The main hall's roof, made using cypress bark roofing, a traditional Japanese roofing technique, is also highly acclaimed for its beauty. The shrine building sits quietly in the deep forests of Azumino, and one step inside is enveloped in a solemn, sacred atmosphere.

Walking through the grounds, visitors will find rows of giant cedar trees, some hundreds of years old, testifying to the shrine's long history. The sacred fence surrounding the shrine building is also elegant, and its beautiful timber construction is captivating. Nishina Shinmei Shrine has long been revered as the main shrine of Azumino, and is said to grant blessings such as bountiful harvests, prosperous business, and household safety. In the tranquil forest, you can feel the sacred power and touch the weight of history.

Nishina Shinmei Shrine is not flashy, but it is a tranquil and peaceful place where the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture and the abundant nature of Azumino blend together.

[Trivia]
Following the example of Ise Grand Shrine, Nishina Shinmei Shrine holds the Shikinen Seisensai (Shikinen Sengu Ceremony) every 20 years, during which the shrine buildings are completely rebuilt and the sacred object is moved from the temporary shrine to the main shrine. The next one is scheduled for November 2040, and will be a grand three-day event featuring a late-night relocation ceremony, traditional performing arts offerings, and rice cake throwing.