The Godai Jingū, also known as the Shrine of Eight Million Gods, is a Shinto shrine located in Akita Prefecture. Dedicated to the enshrined kami of Godaikōen, the shrine is famous for its impressive torii gate and beautiful garden. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a main hall built in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and expanded during the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE). The shrine is also known for its annual Autumn Festival, which features traditional dances and performances.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 39.171188, 139.908098
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit early in the morning when the sun rises over the torii gate.
Cultural notes
The shrine is believed to be connected to the legend of the Godaikōen, a powerful kami who was said to have created the rice fields of Akita. The shrine also hosts an annual festival dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility.
Historical note
The shrine was originally established as a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture, but it has been reenshrined multiple times throughout its history.