Takebe Taisha Shrine

Takebe Taisha is Shiga Prefecture's chief shrine, designated ichinomiya since at least the Heian period and dedicated to the legendary warrior prince Yamato Takeru, who reportedly lived from 72 to 114 CE. A cedar-lined gravel path leads from the torii gate through secluded grounds to the main building. Near the entrance, the chozuya water basin plays music as you purify your hands, an unexpected touch in an otherwise calm setting. Three clustered sacred cedars stand in front of the main shrine, and a treasure hall behind it holds Important Cultural Property statues of Shinto deities from the Heian period. The annual Senkosai Festival on August 17 features the mikoshi portable shrines kept in the hall.