Emperor Tenji
The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenji (626-671), the 38th emperor of Japan. Emperor Tenji carried out the Taika Reforms and aimed to complete the reform in the capital city, which was located on the west bank of Lake Biwa. He moved the Japanese capital from Asuka to Ōtsu in 667. Emperor Tenji also presided over the establishment of the first rōkoku, or Japanese water clock system, which was installed in 671.