Located in the Japanese Alps,御射山神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Kai, revered by the indigenous Ainu people and later adopted by the Japanese. The shrine's architecture reflects its location, with a traditional gonda-toro-style main hall surrounded by shrines for various regional deities.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kagutsuchi
- Kami enshrined
- Kagutsuchi, the god of fire, iron, and the forge
- Coordinates
- 35.9400209, 138.2186091
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's scenic surroundings, consider a visit at dawn or dusk when the surrounding mountains are bathed in golden light.
Cultural notes
Mount Kai is associated with the Ainu mythology as the dwelling place of the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine also hosts the annual Shimo-Seta Matsuri festival in May, which honors local deities and features traditional dances and performances.
Historical note
Founded in 1592 during the Sengoku period, the shrine has undergone several renovations while maintaining its original structure.