Located in the Katsura River basin of Shiga Prefecture, Katsuragi no Nakatsukuni Shrine is dedicated to the 24 kami, or deities, associated with the region's history and mythology. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it has played a significant role in the local community for centuries. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall and several smaller structures.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Fuwa-no-Kami, Mikoto, Kojin, Uchinu-Mori-Tsuchi, Sukaribe-no-Mikoto, Kuni-no-Otoshidama, Shiosai-Hime, Inari, Osumi-Bune-Mikoto, Tsuno-Ka-Yama-Uchi-Sanetsubo-Nagimi-Okami, Katsuragi-Tsuchi, Tsunahachi-Kojin, Mizukagome-Sokushu, Shishigami, Kazehide-Hime, Ise-Daemon, Taka-Mori-Susano-Omikami, Ohashi-Taka-Miko, Ryugu-no-Fuku, Hito-Katane-Okami, Tsuchiya-Hotoke, Sakagawa-Himatsuburi-Okami, Tsunemine-Kasugi, Tsutsu-Izumina-Gamushi, Aka-Shinno-Miko, Shio-Sai-Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.0238123, 135.784995
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow over the grounds.
Cultural notes
According to local legend, the 24 kami enshrined at this shrine are associated with the region's founding and the mythology of the time. The shrine hosts an annual festival, Katsuragi Matsuri, which honors these deities and features traditional music, dance, and food.
Historical note
Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this shrine was likely established as a site for purification rituals and ceremonial events.