新川神社, located in Shiga Prefecture, is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the Oi River and its surrounding area. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Nara-period temples, with a distinctive roofed structure adorned with vermilion paper walls. According to local legend, the shrine was originally built in 747 CE as a way to purify the river waters.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sesera-hime
- Kami enshrined
- Sesera-hime
- Coordinates
- 35.0600503, 136.0152238
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquility, visit during sunrise or sunset when the vermilion paper walls are illuminated by the soft morning or evening light.
Cultural notes
This shrine is connected to the mythology of the Oi River's guardian deity, known as the 'Oi-no-Kami'. Locals also participate in an annual festival in autumn to celebrate the harvest season and express gratitude for the river's bounty.
Historical note
The shrine's primary purpose was to protect the Oi River from pollution and maintain its natural purity.