Located in the town of Katsuyama in Shiga Prefecture, Higashi-hime Shrine is dedicated to Princess Otohime, a legendary figure from Japanese mythology known as the Sea Goddess or Tsukiyomi no tsukayomi. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Edo-period style, with a distinctive tiled roof and wooden torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful gardens and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Otohime
- Kami enshrined
- Otohime
- Coordinates
- 35.5159671, 135.765447
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit early in the morning or at dusk when the lighting creates a serene atmosphere, and bring a gift of sake or tea to be offered to the kami.
Cultural notes
As a coastal shrine, Higashi-hime Shrine is associated with the sea goddess Otohime, who was said to have been banished from heaven by the sun god Amaterasu. According to legend, Otohime's spirit was placed in the sea and became a powerful deity. The shrine also celebrates the annual Otsuri-wake festival, where visitors can witness the ritual of 'overtaking the wake', which symbolizes the goddess's power.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in the 16th century as a rural shrine but was rebuilt in the 19th century during the Meiji period in its current Edo-period style.