Located in Aomori, Shinshu's Kinryu-ji Temple is renowned as the temple that gave birth to the Taira clan and the legendary hero Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who defeated the Taira forces in the Genpei War. In contrast, Kinryu-ji Temple in Aomori Prefecture is dedicated to the goddess Kintarō, also known as Kinryū, a powerful Shinto deity with roots in the Tohoku region. This temple honors Kintarō's connection to the sea and its significance in the local culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kintarō
- Kami enshrined
- Kintarō
- Coordinates
- 40.9031028, 140.4538837
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's significance, consider attending the annual Gion Matsuri festival, which includes a traditional yabusame (archery shooting from a moving boat) event held on Oshoro Bay.
Cultural notes
Kintarō is often depicted as a powerful and benevolent sea goddess who watches over fishermen and provides them with protection. The shrine's architecture reflects this maritime theme, with its striking torii gate resembling a boat's prow. Visitors can also learn about the local folklore and mythology at the on-site museum.