Tokasugi-no-yama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Yashima district of Echizen Town, Shiga Prefecture. The shrine is famous for its unique ' Twenty-One Kami' (kami) which are believed to be the spirits of local villagers who died from illness or injury during times of war. The shrine's architecture and layout are influenced by the Heian period, with a distinctive Sanrio-style hall dedicated to the deity Inari Okami. Visitors can take part in the annual 'Twenty-One Kami' festival (Hachi-jū-ichi no Matsuri) in May, which features traditional dances and offerings to honor the spirits of the fallen.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Twenty-One Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.0238036, 135.7849885
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's unique atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the sun's rays illuminate the intricate carvings and torii gates.
Cultural notes
The Twenty-One Kami are believed to be the collective spirits of local villagers who died from illness or injury during times of war. The shrine is also famous for its 'Hachi-jū-ichi no Matsuri', a unique festival that honors the spirits of the fallen with traditional dances and offerings.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in Shiga Prefecture.