Himuro Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Katsuyama City of Shiga Prefecture, dedicated to the god of the cold and the harvest, Himuro-no-Mikoto. The shrine is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning autumn foliage. According to local legend, the shrine was founded by Emperor Seiwa in 806 CE, during the Nara period. In recent years, the shrine has become a popular destination for autumn leaf peepers, with thousands of visitors flocking to see the vibrant fall colors.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 35.0834571, 135.7227255
Visitor tip
Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea at the shrine's on-site café, which is open during autumn leaf season.
Cultural notes
Himuro Shrine is associated with the mythology of the harvest and the god of cold. During the autumn festival, called Akizuki Matsuri, locals offer prayers for a good harvest and pray for a warm winter.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after suffering damage from an earthquake in the late 17th century.