Otonashi Shrine in Kochi: A Spiritual Sanctuary by the Sea

Photo by Susaki City Tourism Association

Tucked away in the serene Narunashi district at the far end of Uranouchi Bay in Susaki, Kochi Prefecture, Otonashi Shrine is a hidden spiritual jewel known for its profound stillness and coastal beauty. Facing the Pacific Ocean, the shrine’s sea-facing torii gate appears to unite heaven and earth—a sacred space where silence speaks and the divine feels near.

Nicknamed the “Miyajima of Tosa,” this coastal shrine offers not only breathtaking views but also a deeply moving experience that connects tradition, nature, and inner peace.

Founded in 460 AD, Guarding the Sea for Centuries

According to tradition, Otonashi Shrine was founded in 460 AD, and the current main hall was rebuilt in 1663, now designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It served as the original site of Kochi’s prestigious Tosa Shrine, giving it immense spiritual and historical significance in the region.
The enshrined deity, Hitokotonushi-no-kami, is believed to grant a single wish per prayer, attracting worshippers from across Japan seeking sincerity and simplicity in their offerings.

The shrine’s architecture is unlike any other—approached directly from the sea, with a path and sanctuary aligned toward the ocean. It is said that this design was created to welcome deities from the sea, further enhancing the mystical aura that surrounds the site.

Photo by Susaki City Tourism Association

Cultural Rituals and Rare Sacred Trees

Every year on August 25th (solar calendar), the Shinane Festival is held, where a fleet of boats carries a mikoshi (portable shrine) across the bay in a magnificent maritime procession. On August 23rd (lunar calendar), the ancient Chiriheppo ceremony—a local autumn ritual—is performed, preserving centuries-old Shinto customs.

One of the shrine’s most unique customs is its “floating omikuji” ritual—written fortunes are released into the sea, symbolically carrying prayers to the divine. Visitors often find this moment deeply touching and unforgettable.

On the shrine’s forested grounds, seven naturally growing yusuno trees (梼の木, also known as "trees of longevity") can be found. These sacred evergreens, from the genus Distylium, are revered for their strength, vitality, and long life. Their name combines the characters for "tree" and "longevity," and they are treasured as holy trees throughout Japan.

Photo by Susaki City Tourism Association

The True Luxury of Stillness and Sacred Energy

At high tide, the torii appears to float above the sea, evoking a vision straight out of Japanese mythology. With nothing but the sound of waves and the soft scent of salt in the air, it’s a place to simply be—to breathe, reflect, and reconnect.
For discerning travelers seeking more than just sightseeing, Otonashi Shrine offers an unforgettable journey into spiritual Japan, where stillness itself is a luxury.

After your visit, explore the charming fishing port of Susaki or continue your journey through the natural wonders of Kochi, including Cape Ashizuri and the Shikoku Karst. Your spiritual journey begins here.