The Menkai-jinja Shrine in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture is a Shinto temple dedicated to the god of men's faces and the god of the underworld. It is believed that the shrine has been around since the early Heian period, with records showing its existence as far back as 850 AD.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Menkai-o-no-kami
- Kami enshrined
- Menkai-o-no-kami, Tsukuyomi no kami
- Coordinates
- 35.4738547, 134.246045
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its unique architectural style, featuring a distinctive curved roof known as 'menkai' which symbolizes the god's power over men's faces. According to legend, the shrine was founded by a local daimyo who was saved from death by a mysterious man with a beautiful face. The shrine also hosts an annual Obon festival to honor the spirits of one's ancestors.