Dayotsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, known for its scenic beauty and rich history. The shrine's main deity is Tsukuyomi, the god of the moon, but it also enshrines other deities such as Konoha no Ōkami and Umi no Okami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. According to legend, the shrine was founded by a local samurai who built a temple in the 15th century, which later became a Shinto shrine.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsukuyomi
- Kami enshrined
- Konoha no Ōkami, Umi no Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.3389627, 136.3077998
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the sun is low, and take a stroll through the gardens while avoiding the peak tourist season to minimize crowds.
Cultural notes
Dayotsu Shrine is often visited during the Setsubun festival in February, where visitors throw soya beans at the shrine gates to ward off evil spirits. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a temple, with a unique tiled roof and traditional woodwork. Locals believe that visiting the shrine on the 15th day of the lunar calendar will bring good luck and prosperity.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt during the Meiji period (1868-1912) after being destroyed in an earthquake.