okata jinja

Okata Shrine in Komatsuminami, Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, is one of the candidate shrines for the ancient Shikinaisha (shrine listed in the Engishiki), and held the former rank of kensha (prefectural shrine). It is said to be the oldest shrine in the Naruo area. The principal deity is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, revered for warding off evil and pestilence. For generations, the local community has sought divine protection and good health here. The shrine continues to be the spiritual heart of the area, drawing many parishioners to its annual festivals.