Located in the scenic city of Himeji, Kin no Tsurugi-hikoboshi Shrine is dedicated to the god of war and his wife, who was a warrior goddess. The shrine's name, which translates to 'Golden Sword of War', reflects its association with martial arts and the samurai class.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hikoboshi
- Kami enshrined
- Hikoboshi, his wife
- Coordinates
- 35.6429204, 134.6311243
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's architecture, visit at sunrise or sunset when the natural light illuminates the beautiful tile roofs and intricate wooden carvings.
Cultural notes
As a Shinto shrine associated with martial arts, Kin no Tsurugi-hikoboshi Shrine is also connected to the mythology of the god Hikoboshi, who was said to have ridden across a bridge of reeds, allowing him to reunite with his wife every year during the Obon festival. The shrine's annual Obon festival celebrates this mythological event.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 1863 during the Meiji period, but it has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years.