Located in the city of Omi, Shiga Prefecture, Otagisya Shrine is dedicated to the worship of Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess and one of the most revered deities in Shintoism. The shrine is situated at the foot of Mt. Hieizan and features a distinctive architecture style characteristic of the Omi region during the Kamakura period. In the Edo era, the shrine was renovated to its current form, incorporating elements of Zen Buddhism.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Omikami
- Coordinates
- 35.0390801, 135.7714758
Visitor tip
When visiting the shrine, be sure to bring an offering of rice and sake for the gods, and bow upon leaving the premises to show respect.
Cultural notes
Otagisya Shrine is closely associated with the legend of Emperor Kinmei, who is said to have descended from heaven in a boat. The shrine's architecture features a distinctive Omi-style torii gate, while its Hieizan mountain setting is steeped in mythological significance.
Historical note
Established in the 7th century as part of the imperial shrine system of Japan.