Namushi Shrine

Overview

Namushi Shrine is located in Uranochi Bay, Sukisaki City, Kochi Prefecture. Its history stretches back to the Kamakura period, when it is said to have been founded. According to shrine records, a conflict arose between Hitokoto-nushi-no-kami, who resided on Kazuragi Mountain, and Emperor Yuryaku. Hitokoto-nushi-no-kami escaped by sea. On New Year's Eve in the fourth year of Emperor Yuryaku's reign, he landed in this location and constructed the shrine. Hitokoto-nushi-no-kami is the same deity enshrined at Tosa Shrine, the Ichinomiya (most important shrine) of Tosa Province, but Tosa Shrine is said to have been a branch shrine of Namushi Shrine. In the Edo period, the shrine building was constructed and the grounds were developed by order of Yamanouchi Tadayoshi, the second feudal lord of the Tosa Domain. The most distinctive feature of Namushi Shrine is the pathway leading towards the sea. As you walk along this pathway, it appears as if it leads from the sea to the shrine itself. The shrine building against the backdrop of the vast ocean is breathtakingly beautiful, truly deserving of the name "Miyajima of Tosa". From the grounds, you can enjoy stunning views of the blue sea and sky, a truly refreshing experience. Namushi Shrine has a long history of being revered as a deity of safe sea voyages and the protection of fishing, and it remains a popular power spot visited by many worshippers today. It is particularly known for its blessings in matchmaking, attracting many couples from across Japan. Every year, from August 24th to 25th, Namushi Shrine holds its Shinanematsuri summer festival. The highlight of the festival is the grand procession of sacred palanquins on three fishing boats, accompanied by twenty other fishing boats and fluttering celebratory flags. This powerful sea procession is a truly spectacular event that encapsulates the history and maritime culture of Namushi Shrine. Enjoy a peaceful moment surrounded by the grandeur of nature and history.