Kashima Shrine, located in the town of Kashima in Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a main hall featuring a distinctive thatched roof characteristic of ancient Japanese temples. Visitors can experience the tranquility of this sacred site by taking a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens and by offering prayers to the kami at the main torii gate.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Susanoo-no-mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.0437977, 140.0744793
Visitor tip
For those interested in history, visitors can explore the nearby Kashima Shrine Museum to learn more about the shrine's significance and its role as a sacred site for the Mikasa region.
Cultural notes
Kashima Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of Amaterasu, who was said to have hidden in the shrine during a quarrel with her brother Susanoo-no-mikoto. According to legend, the goddess descended from heaven and created the island of Kashima, which is now believed to be located off the coast of Ibaraki Prefecture.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 654 AD, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.