Aso Shrine
阿蘇神社
Kumamoto · Aso
Aso Ichinomiya Traffic Safety
Aoi Aso Shrine
青井阿蘇神社
/ Aoi Aso Jinja
Admission
Free
Goshuin
¥300
Access
5 min walk
Hours
24 hours
Overview
This small-town shrine in Hitoyoshi holds an extraordinary distinction: five of its thatched-roof buildings from 1610–1618 were designated National Treasures in 2008 — the first thatched-roof shrine buildings in Japan to receive this honor. The striking combination of Southern Kyushu architectural style with Chinese and Buddhist influences makes it architecturally unique.
History
Founding
📜According to tradition
806 [大同元年]
Five buildings designated National Treasure in 2008 — first thatched-roof shrine buildings so designated.
📄
Documented
806 1610📄Documented
Current National Treasure buildings constructed by the Sagara clan.
2008📄Documented
Five buildings designated as National Treasures — Kumamoto Prefecture's first.
Enshrined Deities
⛩
primary Deity
Warrior deity associated with the Aso region of Kumamoto; son of Hikonnagisatake Ugayafukiaezu; principal deity of Aso Jinja
Blessings
Shrine Network
Aso notable_branch
Did You Know?
💡
The first thatched-roof shrine buildings in Japan to be designated National Treasures.
Source: documented
Practical Information
Location Coordinates
32.2075, 130.7556
Physical Address
118 Kamiaoi-machi, Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto 868-0005
〒868-0005 熊本県人吉市上青井町118
Historical Province
Higo
Access
Hitoyoshi Station (JR Hisatsu Line)
5 min walk
Hours
24 hours
Official Website
https://aoisan.jp/
Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.
Why This Shrine
Five National Treasure thatched-roof buildings — the first of their kind to be so designated.
Related Shrines
Learn More About Shinto Shrines
Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team
What is Aoi Aso Shrine?
This small-town shrine in Hitoyoshi holds an extraordinary distinction: five of its thatched-roof buildings from 1610–1618 were designated National Treasures in 2008 — the first thatched-roof shrine buildings in Japan to receive this honor. The striking combination of Southern Kyushu architectural style with Chinese and Buddhist influences makes it architecturally unique.
Where is Aoi Aso Shrine located?
Aoi Aso Shrine is located in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto. The full address is: 118 Kamiaoi-machi, Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto 868-0005.
What deities are enshrined at Aoi Aso Shrine?
The enshrined deities are: Takeiwatatsu no Mikoto.