Toshidai Shrine, located in the historic city of Kyōtango, Kyoto Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, dating back to the Nara period (Heian era). The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, reflecting the local Yamato culture. Toshidai's kami is believed to be a deity associated with fertility and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amatsukami
- Kami enshrined
- Amatsukami
- Coordinates
- 35.6885246, 134.9922068
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the setting sun casts a golden glow on the garden's cherry blossoms.
Cultural notes
Toshidai is also celebrated during the spring festival, 'Aki Matsuri', which marks the beginning of autumn with rituals and offerings to ensure good harvests.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 759 AD during the Nara period as a temple dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility.