Gold Pavilion Shrine, located in Yamagata Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, known as Gold Pavilion God. The shrine's gold-painted main hall and vermilion gate are its most striking features. It is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with records dating back to 718 CE.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 38.7373793, 139.8576478
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's gold-painted main hall, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid harsh sunlight.
Cultural notes
Susanoo-no-Mikoto is also associated with storms and fertility. The shrine's gold pavilion is said to represent the treasure of a storm god, and its vermilion gate symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), it has been a major Shinto pilgrimage site for centuries.