Torikami Shrine, located in the town of Hikawa, Shimane Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Torikami, the god of firewood and cooking. The shrine is famous for its unique architectural style, featuring a large torii gate made from cedar wood, which is said to have been donated by the shrine's founder, who was a skilled carpenter. The shrine's main hall, honden, features a distinctive tile roof with a series of interconnected tiles that are said to resemble a pair of chopsticks, symbolizing the connection between cooking and firewood. Visitors can enjoy traditional Shinto cuisine, including grilled fish and rice, while taking in the serene atmosphere of the shrine grounds.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 34.3714448, 132.4956887
Visitor tip
To fully experience the culinary delights of Torikami Shrine, be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as grilled torisashi (raw chicken skewers), which are said to have been cooked using special cooking techniques passed down through generations of shrine priests.
Cultural notes
Torikami Shrine is also famous for its connection to the legend of Urashima Taro, a young fisherman who was said to have fallen in love with a princess from the underwater kingdom of Ryujin. The shrine's torii gate is said to be a symbol of the connection between heaven and earth, while the pair of chopsticks on the honden's roof represent the connection between cooking and firewood.
Historical note
Torikami Shrine was established during the Edo period (1603-1867) as a humble temple dedicated to Torikami, and has since undergone several renovations and expansions.