Tokoura Shrine and Kagi Castle
Tokoura-jinja, a Shinto shrine famous for its large torii gate facing the sea, is connected to the sea both physically and historically.
The pavilion was built by Ura Munekatsu (1526–1592), also known as Nomi Munekatsu, a naval commander for the powerful Kobayakawa samurai family. It was moved to its present location when Munekatsu constructed nearby Kagi Castle. The seaside naval castle was built on a 20-meter hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. It was chosen for its strategic location, commanding views on all four sides so that the approaches to the castle could be monitored at all times. Shounji Temple, located on a hill above Tokoura Shrine, also acted as part of the castle’s defenses against potential attack from the Seto Inland Sea.
The torii gate of Tokoura Shrine was located in the sea before it was moved to its current position on the shore.
Today the site of Kagi Castle is part of a park. Tokoura Shrine is host to a popular festival that is held around Tadanoumi Station every April.