We visited Suwa Shrine 諏訪神社 in October. This is a sprawling Shinto shrine located a top a very long set of stairs.
During our visit, they were setting up for a festival so there were plenty of workers climbing up and down the stairs. It was super hot on this day which made the climb up the stairs a bit tiring.
One you get up the main steps, there's plenty of things to look at and you can also walk to other nearby shrines in the area.
Shrine on top of the hill. It's just a few minutes walk from the streetcar station and you can easily identify it through the stone Tori gates. Offer a nice city view once you clear the stairs and reach the top.
Located on Mount Tamazono in Nagasaki, Suwa Shrine is a historic sanctuary with profound cultural and spiritual significance. Founded in 1614, it played a key role in preserving Shinto traditions during Japan's Christian ban.
You can either reach the shrine by climbing 277 stone steps, leading to a peaceful complex with panoramic views of Nagasaki or drive to the carpark at the top and walk just a few steps to reach the shrine. Highlights include the majestic camphor tree at the entrance, believed to grant health and protection, and the picturesque torii-lined path reminiscent of Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine. Suwa Shrine’s serene atmosphere and rich history make it a must-see destination for visitors to Nagasaki.
A nice hilltop shrine that offers a lovely view of the city, even at night!
Multiple tori gates and a small climb lead to the main shrine where you can pray , get your fortune, and enjoy food and drinks if they are hosting a festival at the time.
Beautiful Architecture. A short walk from the nearby attractions- Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture,
Tetayama air-raid shelter, and Sto.Domingo Church Museum - a good half day itinerary.
