Legend has it that in the era of Emperor Jimmu, Ame-no-Tomi-no-Mikoto came to the Awa region (an ancient region that encompassed most of present-day Tokushima Prefecture) seeking fertilized land to sow hemp seeds. He was so successful, that what he harvested allowed the area's population to produce linen called asa, which became the area's main industry. Because of the positive impact he had on the area, Ōasahiko Shrine was dedicated as the place to worship him as a kami named Oasahiko-no-Okami. By visiting and praying here, one will be protected while traveling, and be protected against illness and getting lost. This is one of the most popular locations in the area to pray at over the New Years holiday. To get here, take a JR Kotoku Line train to Bando Station. From there its about a 25 minute walk.
- 1 min read
Oasahiko Jinja
Naruto, Tokushima

By C. Rio
Community writer

Main Gate

Stone monuments line the kilometer long path from the Maine Gate to the temple

Huge wooden blocks hanging on the bell ropes in front of the Main Temple

Paper lantern painted with the Temple's mark

A monk tidying the grounds before the morning visitors arrive

Prayer slips

Main Temple

Huge 400 year old tree dominates the main courtyard
Join the discussion
Sandra Isaka
9 years ago
On a recent visit to this shrine, we saw a troop of monkeys playing on the meganebashi (eye glasses bridge) and in the pond below it!
Wanida Kaewwong
11 years ago
like this
2 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
2
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored -
3
PokéPark Kanto Set to Open in Spring 2026
Tokyo -
4
Watching Noh in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
6
Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Culture -
7
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
8
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
9
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
10
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored
-
1
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
2
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
5
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
9
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
10
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo