多賀大社 is a Shinto shrine located in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. As the former imperial capital of Japan, the area has been an important cultural and spiritual site for centuries. The shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and is known for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Other kami, including Fujin and Raijin
- Coordinates
- 35.2253825, 136.290756
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the shrine's gardens, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the sunlight casts a warm glow over the grounds.
Cultural notes
多賀大社 is also famous for its connection to the legendary founder of Hikone, Nakatomi no Masa. According to legend, Masa was granted land and permission to build the shrine by the sun goddess Amaterasu herself.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 711 CE during the Nara period as a villa for Emperor Shōmu, who later became Emperor Shōten.