Located in the city of Echizen, Shiga Prefecture, the Ōjima Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity Ōjima-hime, a kami associated with water and fertility. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), it showcases traditional architectural styles, including the distinctive curved roofs and vermillion torii gates.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ōjima-hime
- Kami enshrined
- Ōjima-hime
- Coordinates
- 35.0311906, 135.7347482
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit during sunset when the setting sun reflects beautifully off the tranquil lake in front of the shrine.
Cultural notes
Ōjima Shrine is famously connected to the legend of Ōjima-hime, a legendary princess said to have been turned into a fish by her jealous stepmother. According to myth, the god Susanoo-no-mikoto helped rescue the princess, solidifying her connection to water and fertility.