Located in the city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, the Ōtsu-jinja Shrine is dedicated to Okuninushi, a kami associated with agriculture and fertility. The shrine is known for its impressive architecture, including the Sanmono-zukuri style thatched-roof hall. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese crafts and watch artisans perform ancient rituals at the shrine's festival grounds.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Okuninushi
- Kami enshrined
- Okuninushi, Hikoboshi, Futsuhime, Kusakabuto
- Coordinates
- 34.741992, 136.4465444
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's architecture, consider visiting during cherry blossom season to see the thatched-roof hall aglow with lantern lights.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its annual Spring Festival, where locals pray for a bountiful harvest and celebrate with traditional dances and offerings. Okuninushi is also revered as a patron deity of Hikone Castle, highlighting the importance of agriculture and defense in Japanese history.
Historical note
Founded in 741 AD during the Nara period.