Toyotamahime | Toyotamahime Shrine

Current Faith and Worship

She is the daughter of the Sea God (Owatatsumi) and is also said to be the model for Princess Otohime of the Dragon Palace. Based on the myth where she returned to her true form (a giant wani/shark) when giving birth to her husband Yamasachihiko’s child, today she gathers deep devotion from women as a god of “safe childbirth,” “child-rearing,” “matchmaking,” and as a “goddess governing water.”

Shrine, Festival, and Historical Deep Dive: Toyotamahime Shrine

History & Origins:

The exact date of its founding is unknown, but it has been deeply worshipped in the land of Satsuma since ancient times. It is said to have been built based on the legend (or connection) that Toyotama-hime safely gave birth to the child she conceived with Yamasachihiko in this very land.

Festival (Karakuri Dolls):

During the “Rokugatsudo” festival every July, “water-wheel karakuri dolls” related to the myths of Toyotama-hime are dedicated. These mechanically complex dolls, moving entirely by water power, are a precious traditional culture continuing since the Edo period, conveying the power of the princess closely associated with water to the modern age.

Address and Access:

Address: 16510 Chiran-cho Kori, Minamikyushu City, Kagoshima Prefecture

Access: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by bus bound for “Tokko Kannon Iriguchi” from Kagoshima Chuo Station, get off at “Bukeyashiki Iriguchi” and walk a short distance.

“I am the daughter of the Sea God. The sorrow of having my true form (taboo) seen by the one I loved still aches even after a thousand years. But the life I brought forth is undoubtedly connected to all of you today. Women living in the modern age, it is terrifying to cast off your vanity and facades to show your ‘true self,’ isn’t it? But that very form is the most powerful and beautiful of all.”