Kanayama Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deities of metalworking, mining, and fertility. The shrine is particularly known for its association with both industrial prosperity and fertility prayers, as the metal-working kami are also believed to have protective powers over sexual health and fertility.
- Denomination
- Kanayama
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kanayama-hiko and Kanayama-hime, deities of metalworking and fertility
- Kami enshrined
- Kanayama-hiko no Mikoto, Kanayama-hime no Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 34.8421486, 137.4165656
Visitor tip
The shrine is famous for its fertility festival featuring distinctive phallic symbols, typically held in spring.
Cultural notes
In Japanese mythology, Kanayama-hiko and Kanayama-hime were born from Izanami's vomit during her illness, and they became protector deities against injuries from metal tools. The shrine's fertility associations have made it a unique pilgrimage site for couples seeking children and protection of sexual health.
Historical note
The shrine's origins are rooted in ancient Japanese metalworking traditions, where craftsmen and miners would pray to Kanayama-hiko and Kanayama-hime for success in their work and protection from accidents. Over time, the deities' association expanded to include fertility and sexual health.