Located in the town of Tamahashi, Saitama Prefecture, 鹿島玉川神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea god Susanoo and the rice goddess Amaterasu. The shrine's name, 'Kami-shima-yu-kawa-no-Minakatsu', translates to 'Island Shrine of Kami of the Jade River'. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical ties to the Edo period, with a main hall built in 1722 during the reign of Tokugawa Ietsune. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a beautiful garden and a small pond featuring a replica of the famous Horyu-ji temple's three-story pagoda.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo and Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 35.7780713, 139.2713385
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit during the autumn foliage season (mid-November to mid-December) when the surrounding maple trees turn vibrant shades of orange and red.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the legend of Susanoo, who was said to have created the sea by throwing his sword into a swamp. This mythological story is reflected in the shrine's architecture, which features a distinctive curved roof resembling a wave.
Historical note
Founded in 1637 by the Tokugawa shogunate to ensure safe fishing practices along the nearby coast.