Inugami Shrine, located in the Hikone Castle Park in Shiga Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines and a symbol of the region's history and culture. Dedicated to Inugami Okuninushi, the Shinto deity of fertility, prosperity, and protection, this shrine has been an important center for worship and spiritual guidance for centuries.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Okuninushi
- Kami enshrined
- Inugami Okuninushi
- Coordinates
- 35.0270729, 135.9803114
Visitor tip
To get a full experience of the shrine, visit during the annual Inugami Okuninushi Festival (mid-August), where visitors can participate in traditional dances and offerings to ensure fertility and prosperity.
Cultural notes
Inugami Shrine is known for its beautiful gardens, which feature a large number of plants and trees that are believed to have medicinal properties. The shrine's architecture also reflects the influence of Chinese temple design, reflecting the cultural exchange between Japan and China during the Heian period.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 736 as part of the Hikone Castle complex during the Nara period.