Godai Shrine, located in the heart of Aomori city, is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine's name 'Godai' roughly translates to 'five gods,' symbolizing its connection with various kami and the city's rich cultural heritage. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has been an important spiritual center for locals and visitors alike.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Otohime
- Kami enshrined
- Otohime, Fukurahino-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 40.2737477, 140.4579766
Visitor tip
To avoid the long lines at the shrine's main torii gate, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Cultural notes
Godai Shrine is closely associated with the legend of Urashima Taro, a young fisherman who was granted seven years of youth by the goddess Otohime. This mythological story is still celebrated during the shrine's annual summer festival.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 718 by the emperors of Japan, but it was heavily damaged during World War II.