Twelve Shrines in Omi, a historic site located in Shiga Prefecture, is dedicated to the twelve Kami of the Tendai Buddhist school. The shrines are believed to be founded by Emperor Tenmu and Princess Saemae in the year 690 AD. The shrine complex includes shrines for each of the twelve deities, as well as a torii gate that marks the entrance to the sacred grounds. Each shrine is associated with a different aspect of nature and human life, such as the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi, Sunnyoshi, Honjiitsuhime, Mikoto no Oyamatsumi, Ise no Amaterasu, Kagayaki Yamatsumi, Nakatsu no Mikoto, Inari Okami, Taka-Mori-no-Kamizuka, Ryujin, Fukunaga no Satoro
- Coordinates
- 35.0208744, 136.3121789
Visitor tip
When visiting the Twelve Shrines in Omi, consider taking a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of each shrine, and don't forget to ring the bell at each shrine for good luck!
Cultural notes
The Tendai Buddhist school played an important role in Japanese culture during the Heian period. The twelve shrines are believed to be connected to the mythology of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is revered as a symbol of imperial power and authority.