The Okawachi Daimyo Shrine in Shiga Prefecture is dedicated to the Twenty Deities of Kai, a group of Shinto deities believed to protect the region's waterways and residents. The shrine is built in the traditional Japanese architectural style of a honen-za, with a tatami-mat floor and sliding doors made from wooden screens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Twenty Deities of Kai
- Kami enshrined
- Deities of Kai, associated with waterways, fishing, and maritime prosperity
- Coordinates
- 35.0238594, 135.7849974
Visitor tip
To experience the local culture, visit the shrine during the annual Kai Festival in July, where locals offer offerings of fish and sake to the deities.
Cultural notes
The Twenty Deities of Kai are associated with regional mythology and are believed to possess healing properties. Visitors can purchase traditional medicine made from local herbs at the shrine's store.
Historical note
The shrine was established during the Edo period (1603–1867) as a memorial to the daimyo of the region, who sought to appease the Twenty Deities and ensure continued prosperity.