Furutsu Shrine, located in the city of Kōka in Shiga Prefecture, is a well-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of thunder, Inari Ōkami, and the forest spirit, Ryūjin. The shrine's architecture features a unique blend of traditional Japanese designs with influences from the Heian period, reflecting its historical significance as an important center for worship during the imperial court's relocation to Kyoto in 794 CE.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Ōkami, Ryūjin
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Ōkami, Ryūjin
- Coordinates
- 35.3104903, 136.0489448
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the forest is bathed in soft morning or evening light.
Cultural notes
Furutsu Shrine is also famous for its Ryūjin festival, which takes place on March 21st and celebrates the arrival of spring with rituals and offerings to the god of the sea. The shrine's unique wooden torii gate is said to be a replica of the original built in 794 CE.
Historical note
Founded in the 8th century, Furutsu Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Shiga Prefecture.