Located in the heart of Tokushima Prefecture, Kotoshiro-no-muchi-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and prosperity. The shrine's name, kotoshironushi, refers to the god of harvests and fields, highlighting its importance as a center for rural community life. With its rich history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this shrine is a testament to Tokushima's cultural heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kotoshirō-no-Muchi
- Kami enshrined
- Kotoshirō-no-Muchi, Raijin, Inari
- Coordinates
- 34.0713734, 134.5509445
Visitor tip
For visitors seeking a unique experience, try participating in the traditional harvest festival (Aki Matsuri) held annually in November, which features rituals and ceremonies to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Cultural notes
Kotoshiro-no-muchi-jinja is believed to be the ancestral home of the Tokushima daimyo (feudal lord), and its mythology connections are deeply rooted in rural agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese designs, with a distinctive curved roofline and wooden pillars adorned with carvings of rice plants and other agricultural motifs.
Historical note
Founded during the Heian period in 807 CE, making it one of the oldest shrines in Tokushima Prefecture.