Located in the town of Kozu, Shiga Prefecture, Hiraizumi Shrine is dedicated to the deity Inari Okami, patron god of rice, fertility, and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects the classical Heian period style, with a five-story pagoda, wooden torii gate, and traditional garden. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, including the main hall, shrines, and gardens, while also enjoying local cuisine and shopping.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.5736975, 135.8674416
Visitor tip
For visitors interested in photography, head to the western side of the shrine grounds at dawn or dusk for stunning views of the pagoda and surrounding mountains.
Cultural notes
As a major Shinto pilgrimage site, Hiraizumi Shrine is famous for its annual autumn festival, held on October 16th, where visitors can pray for good fortune, prosperity, and a bountiful harvest. The shrine's name, 'Hiraizumi,' refers to the region's fertile soil and rolling hills.
Historical note
Founded in 710 CE, during the Nara period, as part of the imperial shrine complex.