Located in the city of Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture, Daiojingu Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, it was built during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and rebuilt in 1869 after a fire. The shrine complex features a distinctive hump-backed torii gate and is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 40.525293, 141.5226255
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during autumn to witness the vibrant fall colors of its maple trees.
Cultural notes
As a shrine dedicated to Amaterasu, Daiojingu is deeply connected to the mythology surrounding the sun goddess. During the Obon festival, locals honor their ancestors and perform rituals at the shrine to ensure their safe passage to the afterlife.
Historical note
Daiojingu Shrine was originally founded in 737 CE, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.