Santai Shrine

Located in Shimooya in Maebashi, Gunma, Santai Shrine is regarded as the head shrine of the Santai shrines scattered around the country, and it has gathered faith from across the Kanto region since ancient times as a guardian deity of safe childbirth and child rearing. It sits on a small wooded rise amid gentle farmland, wrapped in a quiet and settled atmosphere. Behind the main hall lies a sacred rock formation said to have emerged through a large-scale shift of the land caused by Mount Akagi over a hundred thousand years ago, hinting that this place has been a site of faith since primeval times.

Highlights

- A sacred rock formation behind the main hall born of land shifts over a hundred thousand years ago - Sacred virtue as a guardian of safe childbirth and child rearing - Atmospheric halls built in the gongen style - Quiet, settled grounds surrounded by farmland

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring a sense of the season spreads across the grounds and the surrounding fields, and in autumn the trees turn color for a gentle scene. For those wishing for safe childbirth it is a place to pray sincerely in any season, and on special days many worshippers visit.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Shimooya, Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture - Reached by bus from Maebashi Station - Reached by car from an interchange on the Kanetsu Expressway - The grounds are easy to walk, allowing a calm visit

A Quick Tip

The sacred rock behind the main hall is a symbol of faith continuing from ancient times, so do clasp your hands quietly when you visit. In the gentle air surrounded by farmland, you can spend a relaxed, unhurried time.