Located in the city of Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, Minamiyoshida Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Otohime, the goddess of the sea and daughter of the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine is believed to have been established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). In 2007, it was relocated from its original location in Nagaoka to its current site on a hill overlooking the city's waterfront. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a wooden torii gate and a distinctive black lacquer roof. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Lake Saito while strolling through the shrine grounds.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Otohime
- Kami enshrined
- Otohime
- Coordinates
- 38.0042615, 138.3252266
Visitor tip
Visit Minamiyoshida Shrine at sunset to witness the beautiful setting sun over Lake Saito.
Cultural notes
As a seaside shrine, Minamiyoshida Shrine is associated with the myth of Otohime, who is said to have been born on an island in the sea and later returned to her father's palace. The shrine also hosts a summer festival called Aoba Matsuri, which features traditional dances and offerings to the kami.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Heian period in 894 CE.