Located in the town of Echizen, Fukui Prefecture, 気比神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Echizen no Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects its historic roots, with a traditional Japanese-style gate and wooden torii gates. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature several shrines, including a moss-covered Kofuku-den shrine and a sacred Yatagarasu tree, believed to be 1,000 years old.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Echizen no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Echizen no Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.0014629, 136.1649037
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's gift shop to purchase local specialties such as Echizen cedar wood products and traditional Japanese sweets.
Cultural notes
As an important site for the worship of Echizen no Okami, a powerful deity associated with storms and rain, 気比神社 is also connected to the mythology of Japan's founding legends. The shrine is also famous for its 'Kawa Kashi', the tradition of purifying one's soul by walking along the nearby Echizen River.
Historical note
The shrine was first established in 654 CE by Prince Shōtoku, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.