Located in the town of Hanasaki, Iwate Prefecture, Koshio Shrine is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the deities believed to protect fishermen and ensure safe voyages at sea. The shrine's name is thought to be derived from its association with the four kings (Koshio) who are said to have ruled over the ocean.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachi no Kojin
- Kami enshrined
- Hachi, no, Kojin
- Coordinates
- 39.4015377, 141.1609721
Visitor tip
Visitors can try their luck by tossing a coin into the shrine's well, believed to bring good fortune and safe passage for fishermen and sailors.
Cultural notes
Koshio Shrine is connected to the mythology of the four kings (Koshio) who were said to have ruled over the ocean. The shrine also hosts an annual fishing festival in October, where locals celebrate the harvest season and seek blessings from the deities.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 1641, during the Edo period, as a memorial to the local lord who had died at sea.