Located in the town of Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, Kashima Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Okami and her consort, Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stop on the road between Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Utsunomiya, with a traditional Japanese-style torii gate and a rectangular shrine hall. Visitors can experience the unique charm of Kashima Shrine by participating in one of the many traditional festivals throughout the year.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.0659851, 140.0184721
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting the shrine early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it's less crowded.
Cultural notes
Kashima Shrine is closely associated with the myth of Amaterasu and her brother Susanoo, who is said to have been banished from heaven. The shrine is also famous for its sacred 'dewdrop' stone, which is believed to be a fragment of a tear drop shed by Amaterasu.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Edo period (1603-1868) as a minor shrine, but it gained significance after being designated as an Imperial Shrine in 1871.