Dayo-jinja, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, is located in the heart of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with a main hall and several smaller buildings. Dayo-jinja is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to 718 CE.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Ōmikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Ōkuninomi no Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.1548974, 136.3328262
Visitor tip
For a more immersive experience, visit during the summer festival (Nagashi), where participants carry lanterns to symbolically transfer the spirits of the dead back to the afterlife.
Cultural notes
As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Dayo-jinja has a strong connection to the mythology of the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine is also famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can also learn about the history of Kanazawa and its role in the Edo period (1603-1867 CE).
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE by Emperor Shōmu, who was the grandson of Empress Genmei, the sister of Emperor Ōjin.