Located in the town of Nagahama, Lake Biwa's most sacred site, Miko-zuchi Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, known as 'Mikozuchi'. The shrine is famous for its beautiful architecture and traditional festivals, which celebrate the arrival of spring with cherry blossom viewing parties and lantern-lit processions. Visitors can also explore the surrounding Lake Biwa region, rich in natural beauty and history.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Mikozuchi
- Kami enshrined
- Mikozuchi
- Coordinates
- 34.9394992, 135.9312415
Visitor tip
To experience the full tranquility of the shrine, consider arriving at dawn for the sunrise lantern ceremony.
Cultural notes
This shrine is dedicated to Mikozuchi, a kami associated with fertility and prosperity. Locals often pray for a successful fishing season at this site, which has been an important source of livelihood in the region.
Historical note
The shrine was originally founded as a Buddhist temple in the 7th century but later converted to Shintoism in the 19th century.