Ikushimatarushima jinja

Ikushimatarushima Shrine is located in Shiodadaira, Ueda City, known as the center of Japan. The inner sanctum of the main shrine and the kabuki stage are designated as prefectural treasures, and the Suwa Shrine on the grounds is a city-designated cultural property. A large Ryobu Torii stands about 500 meters away, with the second torii gate and main shrine located along a busy road from Ueda City to Matsumoto City. The shrine is famous in the prefecture, attracting many visitors during New Year's events and other annual celebrations.

The main shrine is surrounded by a moat, with four-legged gates on the east and west sides. The approach to the shrine is well-maintained with non-slip mats, and the interior is also beautifully kept. Unlike other shrines that have a somewhat dusty and historic atmosphere, Ikushimatarushima Shrine features bright red and white walls.

According to the Engishiki, it was known as "Myoujin Taisha". The inner sanctum, designated as a prefectural treasure, was originally built outdoors and later covered by the current main shrine built in the 19th century, now serving as the inner sanctum.

The inner sanctum has two chambers on the left side for the inner sanctum and one chamber on the right for the outer sanctum. Most of the inner sanctum's perimeter is lined with wooden walls, and the entrance is through a sliding wooden door at the boundary between the inner and outer sanctum. The western end is currently open, but it is believed that it originally had an extended porch. The floor of both the inner and outer sanctums is earthen, with the inner sanctum's floor considered sacred.

The main structural members are made of zelkova wood, carefully hewn and polished with hand axes. Some of the exposed wood still shows traces of red paint. The structural style, including elements such as the chigai and sodeban, reflects the Muromachi period.

The secondary shrine's main hall, located on the south side of the shrine grounds, features white walls and red structural elements. It is a medium-sized nagare-zukuri structure with a copper roof that has developed a green patina. Although the current paint is a modern restoration, it is believed to have been originally painted in a similar style.

The style of various parts includes large chamfered corner pillars for the forward-facing porch, carved bracket arms with patterns on the transverse beams (dragons on the front, waves, and clouds on the back), and a distinctive technique with simple elephant carvings on the transom beams. These elements reflect both Momoyama and late Muromachi period styles.

The connection to the main building uses overlapping shrimp-tail beams and decorative brackets. The main building features tapered circular pillars connected by tie beams and platform beams with Zen-style carved elements. The carvings on the main girders (clouds and qilin) and the side and rear elements with carved decorations reflect Momoyama style, but elements such as the elephant carvings and shrimp-tail beams retain late Muromachi period styles.