Located in the Katsuoji district of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Godaiwa Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Ōjin (Ginno), a legendary emperor believed to have lived around 269-310 CE. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it showcases traditional Heian-style architecture and is often visited during the Tanabata festival, which honors the meeting between two star-crossed lovers.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ōjin
- Kami enshrined
- Ōjin, Ginno
- Coordinates
- 36.1232078, 136.2752549
Visitor tip
To make a traditional offering at the shrine, follow the wooden path to the Ōjin Shrine hall, then proceed to the donation box to select from various options for your contribution, including coins or special 'donation tokens'.
Cultural notes
Godaiwa Shrine is also notable for its unique 'tree-bridge' design, where a wooden bridge spans over a tree-lined area and connects the shrine's outer torii gate to the main hall. This unusual feature may be connected to the legend that Emperor Ōjin was said to have been cremated under a tree.
Historical note
The shrine was established in the 9th century as Ōjin's shrine and has since been rebuilt several times.