Zeze-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Zeze-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Ōtsu with simple wooden buildings and curved roofs set among old trees. The grounds feature stone-paved paths with stone statues and wooden lanterns that together create a quiet and well-ordered space.
The shrine dates back to the Nara period over a thousand years ago and was built to honor local spirits and gods. It played an important role in local events and gatherings, with stories of miraculous occurrences remaining alive in the community today.
The shrine is a place where visitors can see how local traditions are still practiced today. People make offerings, bow before the main building, and attend festivals where traditional music and dance performances take place.
You can reach the shrine by train to Keihan Zeze-hommachi Station with about 7 minutes on foot, or by bus from JR Otsu Station directly there. The grounds are open year-round, and there is free parking available if you prefer to arrive by car.
Nearby are the ruins of former Zeze Castle, which was built by the Tokugawa clan with water-filled moats fed by Lake Biwa. In spring, the castle ruins are transformed by blooming cherry blossoms into a special destination.
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