愛宕神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, dedicated to the kami Amaterasu Omikami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can explore the main hall, Shinden-zu, which features an impressive wooden structure with intricate carvings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu Omikami, Amaterasu Nagi
- Coordinates
- 35.0076382, 135.9536653
Visitor tip
Be sure to visit the shrine's gardens during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for stunning views of the blooming sakura trees.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the mythology of Amaterasu Omikami, the Shinto goddess of the sun. According to legend, Amaterasu was forced to return to her heavenly palace after a dispute with her sister, Amaterasu Nagi. The shrine's architecture and decorations reflect this mythological story.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1603 during the Edo period by Tokugawa Ieyasu's retainer, Matsudaira Nobutsuna, as a memorial to his lord.