Located in the town of Katsurao, Dayo Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, known as Dayu in Japanese. Dedicated to agriculture and fertility, the shrine is famous for its sacred tree, a 1,000-year-old pine tree that is believed to have healing properties. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a five-story pagoda and a large stone torii gate.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Dayu
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.1580861, 140.1568249
Visitor tip
To make an offering of sake, visitors should tie a red string around the sacred pine tree's trunk to show respect and gratitude.
Cultural notes
Dayu is often invoked by farmers for good harvests and fertility. The shrine holds an annual festival in autumn to celebrate the harvest season, featuring traditional dances and rituals to honor Susanoo-no-Mikoto.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 741 CE during the Nara period.