Located in the city of Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Katsura Shrine is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and her son Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine complex includes a five-story pagoda, a museum, and several historic buildings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 35.8043953, 140.5761894
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at sunrise or sunset when the light illuminates the five-story pagoda.
Cultural notes
Katsura Shrine is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful garden. The shrine's name 'Katsura' comes from the Katsura River, which runs nearby. In Shinto mythology, Susanoo-no-Mikoto was known to have played a role in the creation of Japan.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 718 CE by Prince Namuhime, daughter of Emperor Jimmu.