Located in the mountains of Akita Prefecture, Tooheyan-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of good fortune and prosperity, particularly in agriculture. The shrine's name translates to 'Peaceful Mountain Shrine' and reflects its serene location amidst lush greenery.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Takemikazuchi
- Kami enshrined
- Takemikazuchi
- Coordinates
- 40.1111428, 140.0786919
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's natural beauty, visit at sunrise or sunset when the mist is still lingering in the valleys below.
Cultural notes
Tooheyan-jinja is closely associated with the mythological figure of Takemikazuchi, a Shinto god of thunder and lightning who is said to have protected the region from natural disasters. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in August, where participants dress up in traditional costumes and reenact the legend of Takemikazuchi.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Nara period (710-794 CE) as a small shrine dedicated to the kami of the surrounding mountains.