Located in Hyogo Prefecture, the Settsu Bay Eight-High Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fortune and prosperity, Fukutoku-no-Mikoto. The shrine's architecture reflects its age, with the main hall built during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and the torii gate constructed in the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE). The shrine complex is situated on a hillside overlooking Settsu Bay, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful grounds, which are famous for their autumn foliage.
- Denomination
- shinto
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Fukutoku-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Fukutoku-no-Mikoto, Shisa-kami
- Coordinates
- 34.3397012, 134.8994384
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural beauty, arrive early to catch the sunrise and stroll around the grounds before the crowds arrive.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its association with the legend of Urashima Taro, a fisherman who rescued a turtle that turned out to be a divine messenger from the underwater palace of Ryujin. As punishment for his kindness, Urashima was forced to leave the kingdom and return to his village as an old man.
Historical note
The shrine was established in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) as a sacred site to ensure safe passage across the bay.