Located in the scenic town of Miura, gold mines (金山 meaning 'gold mountain' in Japanese) have been a significant source of inspiration and reverence for locals since ancient times. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Kinzan Shrine has been dedicated to protecting the prosperity of miners, farmers, and fishermen in the region. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature traditional wooden buildings and beautiful gardens. The shrine is particularly famous for its sake brewery, producing a range of unique brews using local ingredients.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 35.373178, 139.4086427
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's atmosphere, visit during golden hour (just before sunset) and enjoy a cup of sake from the on-site brewery.
Cultural notes
Kinzan Shrine is closely associated with the regional god of agriculture, Kaito no Okami. The shrine also plays an important role in the annual Kinzan Gold Mine Festival, which celebrates the region's rich mining history.
Historical note
The earliest records of Kinzan Shrine date back to the 7th century, with many historical sources indicating its significance during the Edo period.