Located in the town of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Tennosho-dera Shrine is one of Japan's 'Thirty-three Kitsunetsu-ji' or 'Thirty-three Thousand-Year Shrines'. The shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and her son Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who is revered as a god of storms and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its Heian period origins, with a five-story pagoda and several wooden buildings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 35.0057001, 135.8672294
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit Tennosho-dera early in the morning or later in the evening. Additionally, consider purchasing a guided tour to learn more about the shrine's history and significance.
Cultural notes
Tenno-dera Shrine is known for its association with the legendary 'Gods of Agriculture', who are believed to bring prosperity to the local region. The shrine also holds an annual festival in October, where visitors can participate in traditional games and activities.
Historical note
Founded in 778 AD by Emperor Shōmu during the Nara period, making it one of Japan's oldest shrines.