Omi Jingu Shrine in Shiga Prefecture is a modern Shinto shrine completed in 1940. It was built in honor of Emperor Tenji, under whose reign in the 7th century the Taika reforms were carried out. These reforms were an important step towards creating an effective bureaucratic state in ancient Japan. The shrine is a beautiful example of Showa-period (1926-1989) shrine architecture. If you are visiting the city of Otsu on Lake Biwa, it is worth stopping by. Fans of historical architecture will find much to appreciate from Omi Jingu Shrine.

Photograph provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau