氷川神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Kanazawa, the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture, on the west coast of Honshu. The shrine is dedicated to the kami Yamato no Orochi, known as the 'Eight-Footed Serpent.' According to legend, the serpent was said to have been defeated by the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto during a celestial battle.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Orochi
- Kami enshrined
- Yamato no Orochi
- Coordinates
- 36.0448408, 136.2482798
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's beautiful architecture, arrive early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the wooden buildings.
Cultural notes
氷川神社 is famous for its traditional Japanese garden and its association with the legend of Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in July to honor Yamato no Orochi, featuring traditional dances, music, and food stalls.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 1493, during the Muromachi period.