Todai-ji Shrine in Nara Prefecture is dedicated to the worship of Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of scholars. In Shiga Prefecture's Mikawa city lies Flywheel Shrine (Hikarigami-jinja), a shrine which honors the kami associated with wind, lightning, or other natural forces that allow for aviation in the Japanese sky.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hikarigami
- Kami enshrined
- Hikarigami
- Coordinates
- 34.8837747, 135.7031495
Visitor tip
Visit at dawn when flying cranes (or maneki-neko) are seen flying over the shrine. Take a photo with these beautiful birds for good luck.
Cultural notes
It is said that during storms, the winds carry prayers from devotees to Hikarigami, the wind god, who then communicates with the kami and requests calm in return. This concept emphasizes human responsibility towards nature and the power of prayer. At Flywheel Shrine, it is also common to hear prayers for safe travel.
Historical note
The temple is believed to have been founded during the Muromachi period