Located in the city of Echizen, Shiga Prefecture, 加賀国中42神 Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to the 42 gods believed to have been enshrined by Omi-no-kuni (the province that includes modern-day Echizen) during the Silla period. The shrine's primary deity is not well-documented but is associated with the province's patron kami, Mikasa-no-okami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 35.0238073, 135.7847515
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine during the annual Matsuri festival to experience traditional dances performed by local women dressed as 'yamabushi' (mountain ascetics) to purify the land and ensure good harvests.
Cultural notes
The shrine's architecture is influenced by Heian-era Shinto temples, with a distinctive gabled roof and wooden torii gate. According to local legend, the 42 kami are believed to have been enshrined in response to a devastating flood that devastated the province.
Historical note
The shrine was established in the late Heian period and has undergone significant renovations throughout its history.