Yata-za Kusitamahiko Shrine

Overview

Yata-za Kusitamahiko Shrine is located in Yada-cho, Yamato-koriyama City, Nara Prefecture. The enshrined deities are Kushitama-Nigih Ayahi-no-Mikoto and Mikashiya-hime-no-Kami. Historically known as "Yada no Mori," it was a sacred forest deeply revered by the people. While the founding date is unknown, the shrine boasts a rich history, appearing in both the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The grounds feature a main hall (honden), designated as an Important Cultural Property, built during the Muromachi period, as well as a kagura hall (kaguraden) and a worship hall (haiden), allowing visitors to feel the weight of history. Yata-za Kusitamahiko Shrine is also revered as the shrine of aviation. This stems from the myth of Kushitama-Nigih Ayahi-no-Mikoto arriving on a heavenly ship (Iwanefune). Since September 20th, 1940, was designated as "Aviation Day," an annual aviation festival is held every September 20th. This festival features display flights of Japan Air Self-Defense Force fighter jets and helicopters, attracting a large number of visitors. Yata-za Kusitamahiko Shrine is a tranquil and sacred place surrounded by history and nature. Its reverence as the aviation deity draws many visitors. We highly recommend a visit.