A–Z directory

小川神社

Japanese Name小川神社
PrefectureShiga
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityOkuninushi no Kami
Coordinates35.6086790, 135.8447194

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Small but historic Minatogahara Shrine in Shiga Prefecture is dedicated to Okuninushi no Kami, a Shinto god of plagues, epidemics, and the spirits of the dead. The shrine's current structure dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), although its origins are believed to date to the Nara period (710-794 CE). Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, traditional torii gates, and tranquil ponds.

Cultural Significance

Minatogahara Shrine is associated with Okuninushi no Kami, who is often invoked for protection against illness and disease. The shrine also hosts a traditional New Year's festival (shinnen) in January.

Enshrined Deities

Okuninushi no Kami

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Spot an error?

This shrine data is sourced from OpenStreetMap. You can submit a correction or edit it on OpenStreetMap.

Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Browse shrines by prefecture

Jump to Shinto shrines across Japan — 108 prefectures in our directory.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

For a more immersive experience, consider visiting during cherry blossom season (mid-April to late April) when the shrine's grounds are particularly beautiful.

History

Founded during the Heian period, Minatogahara Shrine is one of Shiga Prefecture's oldest shrines.

A-Z Creatures
Learn Japanese

Japanese Culture Network

Japanese Wood Joints

Ancient joinery techniques of Japanese master craftsmen

ShrinePuzzle

Directory of Japanese board games and traditional games

Kohibou

Japanese coffee culture — kissaten, third wave and brewing guides

E2Japan

Explore Japan's landmarks, shrines and hidden locations

The 725 Club

SNES and Super Famicom collection tracker

Spaceship Adventures

Hoshi no Isan — a Japanese-aesthetic space RPG in development

Japan In Pixels

A pixel art map of Japanese culture — coming 2027

CSSKitsune

Japanese-aesthetic design tokens & AI-ready UI prompts

Shinto Wisdom app icon
Free App · No Ads · Offline

Shinto Wisdom Daily Practice

by 10k Game Studio

Every day, one teaching. One moment of stillness.
Kanji, meaning, and a quiet reflection — rooted in the philosophy behind Japan's forests, seasons, and sacred silences.

結び Musubi 清め Harae 自然 Shizen 間 Ma 誠 Makoto + 45 more
Get it on Google Play

Explore 297+ yōkai, oni, kami, and spirits — plus one of the largest English-language Shinto shrine directories on the web.

Explore
Popular Yokai
Popular Shrines

Content Warning: This website explores Japanese folklore and mythological beings—including yokai, oni, and other supernatural entities—that may be frightening to younger audiences or sensitive viewers. All material is presented for educational and cultural appreciation only. Viewer discretion is advised.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to preview content before sharing it with children. By continuing to use JapaneseMythicalCreatures.com, you acknowledge and accept this advisory.

Copyright © 2026 Japanese Mythical Creatures • All Rights Reserved.