Located on City Island in Lake Biwa, Osaka City's counterpart being Kochi's Katsura Island, the City Island Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine located in Shiga Prefecture, dedicated to the deity of good fortune, wealth, and prosperity. It was built during the Nara period (c. 750) on the site where a sacred tree stood. The shrine has played a significant role in the local economy for centuries.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Kashima-jin
- Coordinates
- 35.0761485, 136.2875357
Visitor tip
Visitors can rent kayaks or bicycles and explore City Island, which offers beautiful views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding countryside.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its 'Kashima-jin' festival, held on May 20th, where people pray to Inari Okami, a Shinto deity believed to bring good fortune. The shrine's architecture features a distinctive red tiled roof and a large torii gate.
Historical note
It is believed that the shrine was re-established after a fire destroyed it during the Heian period (794-1185).