Aida shinmeigu

Shinano Province Shrine
One of the Eight Territories
Enshrined in the 2nd year of Emperor Tenmu, it was one of the eight territories of Shinano Province. Known as Aida Mikuriya, the shrine had a domain of seventy chōbu.

Originally the main shrine for the 39 villages of Aida Four Groups, it was rebuilt in 1604 and again in 1756 by Matsumoto Castle's lord Mizuno Umanojo.

Located in the former Shiga Village's post town, Aida District, the shrine features a large wooden torii facing the main street. The torii is supported by struts and has iron plates on the kasagi. After passing through the torii, the path leads to a gabled Kaguraden.

Behind the Kaguraden, stone steps lead to the Haiden and shrine office. It is customary to rebuild the main shrine periodically in a tradition known as Shikinen Sengu. During this time, the deity is enshrined in a temporary building next to the main shrine. The main shrine follows the same form as other Shinmeigu Shrines in the prefecture, with a 2-ken wide, 3-ken deep structure. It features 6 katsuogi on the ridge and chigi on both ends, with a steep roof supported by long ridge posts. The construction is simple, without elaborate carvings or colors.