A–Z directory

蟻通神社

Aridoshi Shrine

Japanese Name蟻通神社
English NameAridoshi Shrine
PrefectureWakayama
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityEmperor Ojin
TypeHachiman Shrine
Coordinates34.2770908, 135.4806185

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Aridoshi Shrine is a Hachiman shrine in Wakayama Prefecture dedicated to Emperor Ojin. The shrine is known for its connection to local folklore involving ants and wisdom, reflected in its name which literally means 'ant passing through shrine.' The shrine serves as an important local spiritual center and is associated with prayers for wisdom and problem-solving.

Cultural Significance

The ant-related folklore connects to classical Japanese literature and the value placed on observation and cleverness in solving problems. The shrine represents the intersection of nature worship and practical wisdom in Shinto belief.

Enshrined Deities

Emperor Ojin

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

  • Era: Heian period
  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

The shrine is particularly popular among students and those facing difficult decisions who come to pray for wisdom and guidance.

History

The shrine's name derives from a classical Japanese tale about solving a riddle by observing ants passing through a curved jewel. This connection to wisdom and clever problem-solving has made it a place where people pray for intelligence and insight. The shrine has maintained its role as a local religious center throughout various periods of Japanese history.

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

Uptown Zero

Pixel art life sim MMO — start at zero, build your life

Book Fairy Tales

AI-powered educational stories for kids

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.