The Twelve Shrine, a Shinto shrine in Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the twelve gods of the Japanese pantheon known as the Kami of Mount Kosaka. The shrine is situated at the foot of Mount Kosaka, which is said to be the home of the twelve Kami. According to legend, the twelve Kami were once twelve handsome and strong youths who lived on Mount Kosaka. They were tasked with serving as guardians of the mountain and its surroundings. Visitors can see a beautiful cherry blossom tree, said to have been planted by one of the twelve Kami, which blooms annually in spring.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hoshiko, Tsuki-yomi, Inari, Kanezane, Shime-no-kami, Futsunoyomi, Ōkamisan, Sokanoyori-tsunaga, Kozue-no-Ōkami, Kaze-no-Tsurugi, Raijin, and Ryujin
- Kami enshrined
- Hoshiko, Tsuki-yomi, Inari, Kanezane, Shime-no-kami, Futsunoyomi, Ōkamisan, Sokanoyori-tsunaga, Kozue-no-Ōkami, Kaze-no-Tsurugi, Raijin, Ryujin
- Coordinates
- 37.2408643, 138.971499
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the shrine's cherry blossom tree, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is not too high to avoid harsh shadows.
Cultural notes
The Twelve Shrine is also famous for its New Year (Oshogatsu) festival, where visitors can participate in traditional dances and rituals to honor the twelve Kami. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of traditional and modern elements, with a striking torii gate adorned with vermilion decorations.
Historical note
The shrine was established during the Edo period (1603-1867) and has since become an important cultural and historical landmark in Niigata Prefecture.