Located in the town of Gokashima, Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Ryujin Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea and storms, Ryujin. Its architecture reflects the region's Edo period style, with a vermilion torii gate and wooden shinden-zukuri main hall. The shrine is also famous for its traditional Japanese festivals, particularly the 'Furudou no Matsuri', which takes place in May and features a 20-meter high float decorated with intricate carvings and ornaments.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryujin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryujin
- Coordinates
- 35.3325239, 136.2740032
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, try to arrive early in the morning to witness the sunrise over the adjacent Gokashima Shrine Pond, which is said to be a sacred spot for the locals.
Cultural notes
Ryujin Shrine has strong connections to the mythology surrounding Ryujin, the dragon god who rules the sea and the weather. The shrine's architecture also features a unique 'sōgen,' a roof that spans across multiple buildings, which is said to symbolize the connection between heaven and earth.
Historical note
Founded in 1713 during the Edo period.