Tsushima Island Shrine is a Shinto shrine located on Tsushima Island in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the sea deity and god of storms, Ryujin, and is known as the 'Shrine of the Sea God'. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with traditional Japanese-style buildings and wooden pillars adorned with netsuke charm, symbolizing protection from the sea.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryujin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryujin
- Coordinates
- 34.2393396, 133.7049307
Visitor tip
Be sure to wash your hands before entering the shrine, as it is customary to do so before purifying oneself with water at Shinto shrines. You can purchase a beautiful hand-woven Tsushima Island towel to dry yourself afterwards at the on-site shop.
Cultural notes
Tsushima Island Shrine is an important cultural site in Tokushima Prefecture, known for its unique Ryujin shrine structure and traditional Japanese architecture. The shrine also hosts the annual 'Festival of the Sea God', where participants dress up as mermaids and sea creatures to honor Ryujin.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in the 7th century by Emperor Mommu's envoy, who built a humble shrine to appease Ryujin after the island was destroyed by a tsunami.