Revelations of Meanings: Geosemiotic Analysis of the Linguistic Landscape of a Sacred Site in Japan

This study explores the linguistic landscape of Atsuta Shrine, one of the three principal sites in Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion. Using Scollon and Scollon’s (2003) geosemiotics framework, it investigates cultural meanings within the shrine’s linguistic elements. Going beyond mere text, it also examines semiotic meanings in material forms like torii gates and the shrine’s untouched forest, helping to unravel the relationship between space, power, and semiotics. Findings highlight the emphasis on ritual, spirituality, community identity, and historical narratives through symbolic language, varied translations, linguistic omissions, and the interplay of sacredness, mass tourism, and nationalist sentiments.