Dayo-jinja, located in Tokushima Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine's architecture is typical of its region, featuring a wooden torii gate and a main hall with a tiled roof. Dayo-jinja is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional festivals, such as the annual Aki Matsuri, which celebrates the autumnal equinox.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Okuninushi
- Coordinates
- 34.2467213, 133.8091974
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's tranquility, visit at dawn or dusk to coincide with the morning sun or sunset. Bring a gift of sake or honey, as these offerings are traditionally made to the kami.
Cultural notes
As a shrine associated with the sun goddess Amaterasu, Dayo-jinja is also connected to the legend of Urashima Taro, who sailed to the underwater palace of Ryujin and returned to his village in Tokushima. The shrine's gardens are said to be inspired by this mythological journey.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 711 CE during the Nara period.