Located in the heart of Kanazawa, Dayo-jinja Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most respected Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Built in 757 AD during the Nara period, the shrine has been continuously worshipped for over 1,300 years, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark in Ishikawa Prefecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Otohime
- Coordinates
- 36.0923057, 136.2763374
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit at sunrise or sunset when possible, and take a moment to admire the beautiful gardens and tranquil pond before making an offering.
Cultural notes
Dayo-jinja Shrine is famous for its association with the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who allegedly visited the shrine in search of divine guidance. The shrine also hosts a stunning autumn foliage festival, known as the Dayo Autumn Leaves Festival.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built as a temple, but later converted to a Shinto shrine in 1869 during the Meiji period.