Hotaka Shrine is a shrine located in Hotaka, Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture. It is a Myojin Taisha (shrine of significant status) and the third shrine of Shinano Province. Listed as a Myojin Taisha in the Engishiki Jinmyocho (a list of shrines compiled in 927 AD), it has been revered as a major shrine in Shinano since ancient times, even by the Imperial Court. The following three items are provided: 1. Goshuin (shrine stamp) 2. Yuisyo-sho (historical document) 3. Information on joining the Hotaka Shrine Suikeikai (Supporting Association) (Used as a protective material for the Goshuin) The grounds where the main hall and worship hall stand are surrounded by serene cedar groves, creating a solemn atmosphere. The enshrined deity is Hotakamino Mikoto, the ancestral god of the Azumi clan, who prospered in ancient northern Kyushu and is said to have migrated to Azumino around the 7th century. Known as the general guardian of the Japanese Alps, Hotaka Shrine's main shrine is located in Azumino City, but that's not all. There is also Okumiya (inner shrine) located along the Azusa River from the Kappa Bridge in Kamikochi, near Myojin Pond, which enshrines Hotakamino Mikoto, with Kamikochi as its sacred area. Furthermore, there is a small shrine called Minegu (peak shrine) at the summit of Mt. Okuhotaka (3,190m), the third-highest peak in Japan. It is said that Hotakamino Mikoto first descended to earth on this Mt. Okuhotaka.