Located in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Oi no Tsumi Shrine is a small but significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Oi no Tsumi. The shrine's name literally translates to 'Shrine of Poisonous Water'. According to legend, the shrine was founded by Saint Ninno in 725 CE as a result of his journey to this site, where he was healed of his illness after drinking from a nearby stream that is said to have purifying properties.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Oi no Tsumi
- Kami enshrined
- Oi no Tsumi
- Coordinates
- 35.0561055, 135.9534544
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's purification waters, visitors can walk through a small gate and then walk on a stone path to the water's edge. The best time for visiting is at dawn or dusk when the sun casts a serene glow over the surrounding landscape.
Cultural notes
The shrine is situated near Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. In accordance with Shinto tradition, the Oi no Tsumi Shrine does not have a traditional torii gate. Instead, visitors approach the shrine through a small wooden gate that marks the threshold to the sacred grounds.
Historical note
Founded by Saint Ninno in 725 CE