Raiden Shrine, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of thunder, Raijin, and his wife Inazuma. The shrine's architecture reflects its connection to the kami, with a distinctive curved roof and ornate torii gate. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Raiden Shrine has played a significant role in local history and mythology.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Raijin (Thunder God), Inazuma (Lightning Goddess)
- Kami enshrined
- Raijin, Inazuma
- Coordinates
- 35.088857, 138.9509208
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's unique atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the natural light illuminates the beautifully crafted torii gate.
Cultural notes
Raiden Shrine is closely tied to local folklore, where Raijin is often depicted as a powerful and feared kami. The shrine's annual summer festival, Okuribi, features lanterns lit to guide spirits back to their graves, a tradition believed to have originated with Raijin's association with thunder.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it over 900 years old.