Located in the city of Omi, Shiga Prefecture, Bensei-ten Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to Benzaiten, the Shinto goddess of art, beauty, and wisdom. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a Buddhist temple, but it has since been adopted by the Shinto faith, reflecting Benzaiten's role as a patron deity of artisans and creatives.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Benzaiten
- Kami enshrined
- Benzaiten
- Coordinates
- 34.9009222, 135.718313
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the golden light of the rising or setting sun illuminates the tranquil grounds.
Cultural notes
Benzaiten is also revered as a kami of fertility and prosperity. The shrine celebrates her festival, Benzaiten Matsuri, typically in June, with traditional dances, music, and offerings to artisans and creatives.
Historical note
Founded in 645 CE during the Asuka period, Bensei-ten Shrine is one of Japan's oldest temples.