Located in the town of Shiroishi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Horikiri Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Hikawa Okuninushi, a regional kami associated with the rice fields and agriculture. The shrine's main hall, designed in the traditional Edo-period style, features a unique design element of a large wooden gate adorned with carvings of mythical creatures. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, which are said to be blessed by the shrine's deity for good harvests.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hikawa Okuninushi
- Kami enshrined
- Hikawa Okuninushi
- Coordinates
- 35.7498912, 139.8306557
Visitor tip
Visitors are encouraged to ring the large bronze bell at the shrine, believed to have purifying effects and bring good luck.
Cultural notes
As an important site for agriculture and rice cultivation in the region, Horikiri Hikawa Shrine is also associated with the Japanese New Year (Oshogatsu) festival, which honors the kami's role in ensuring a bountiful harvest. The shrine's grounds feature several ceremonial shrines dedicated to other regional kami, reflecting the complex pantheon of Shinto deities.
Historical note
Established during the Edo period (1603-1867),