Kotohira Jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Kotohira, Shimane Prefecture. The shrine is famous for its stunning architecture and sacred sword, Kotohira-guunaji, which is said to be one of the three most important swords in Japan. The shrine is also revered as the 'Mother Shrine' of Japan, with numerous shrines dedicated to it across the country.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 34.2951187, 132.3189469
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not directly shining on the shrine. Bring cash for donations at the entrance as some shrines may not accept credit cards.
Cultural notes
Kotohira Jinja Shrine is connected to the legend of Hachiman, the Shinto god of war, who was revered by Shotoku Taishi. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a distinctive curved roof and vermilion torii gate.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 664 AD by Shotoku Taishi, a Japanese statesman and Buddhist priest, who built the main hall using materials from the Hieizan temple.