Located in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Omi-Utsu Shrine is a renowned Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and the eight-headed serpent Yamatano Orochi. The shrine's main hall was built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), making it one of Japan's oldest structures. Visitors can explore the shrine's sacred grounds, which include several historical landmarks such as the five-story pagoda and the shrine's outer torii gate.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Yamatano Orochi
- Kami enshrined
- Yamatano-Orochi, Susanoo no Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.0326515, 135.8484015
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the sun's rays illuminate the shrine grounds.
Cultural notes
Omi-Utsu Shrine is famous for its unique festival tradition, where participants dress up as giant serpent heads to reenact a myth from Japanese folklore. This unique event showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and the importance of the shrine as a spiritual center.
Historical note
The shrine has been an important center for the Omi region since its founding in 725 CE during the Nara period.