Kingotsu Shrine, located in the city of Katsuwagi, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Kingotsumi no Okami, also known as Kingo-tsu-no-okami. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period, with a simple yet elegant design featuring a square torii gate and a haiden (main hall). The shrine's main prayer hall, Haiden, houses a large vermilion torii gate. Kingotsu Shrine is known for its beautiful cherry blossom viewing area and traditional Japanese sweets offerings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kingotsumi no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Kingotsumi no Okami, Otsuru Okami, Shiohime
- Coordinates
- 34.8157357, 138.0361265
Visitor tip
Visitors can purchase traditional Japanese sweets at the shrine's shops, then participate in the 'Sweet Rice Ball' ritual by offering the rice ball as a prayer to Kingotsumi no Okami.
Cultural notes
Kingotsu Shrine is often visited during spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage viewing. The shrine also celebrates the local 'Kingo-tsuen Matsuri', a festival honoring the deity with music, dance, and food stalls.
Historical note
Founded during the Edo period, Kingotsu Shrine was originally dedicated to Kingotsumi no Okami, a local deity revered for protection of fishermen and merchants.