A–Z directory

神明社

Japanese Name神明社
PrefectureAkita
ReligionShinto
Primary DeitySengen Tenjin
Coordinates39.9311311, 140.0996157

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the heart of Akita City, Godai Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Sengen Tenjin, the patron saint of literature and education. The shrine's architecture reflects the classical Heian period style, with a wooden torii gate and a thatched roof covered in moss. Visitors can explore the serene gardens, which feature beautiful cherry blossoms and a tranquil pond.

Cultural Significance

As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Godai Shrine is deeply rooted in local culture and mythology. The shrine is said to be a sacred site for learning and intellectual pursuits, making it a popular destination for students and scholars.

Enshrined Deities

Sengen Tenjin Hachiman

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 unique experience, visit Godai Shrine during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and try some traditional Akita sweets at the nearby stalls.

History

The shrine was originally built in 1613 during the Edo period to honor Sengen Tenjin, who was believed to have brought peace and prosperity to the region.

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.