One of the three Kashima shrines along with Kashima Shrine and Katori Shrine, collectively known as the Jingu Sansha. Located at the mouth of the Tone River, this ancient shrine has served as a guardian of water transportation and naval safety for over a millennium.
- Denomination
- Kashima
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kunado-no-kami and Sumiyoshi deities
- Kami enshrined
- Kunado-no-kami, Sumiyoshi-no-Okami, Kasuga-no-Okami
- Founding
- Heian period
- Shrine rank
- Myojin Taisha
- Coordinates
- 37.7221748, 140.457097
Visitor tip
Visit the famous sacred wells (shinsen) near the torii gates, which are said to contain fresh water despite being close to the sea.
Cultural notes
The shrine is renowned for its two sacred wells that mysteriously contain fresh water despite their proximity to salt water, considered one of the seven wonders of the region. It plays a crucial role in the regional mythology surrounding the pacification of the eastern lands.
Historical note
Established during the early Heian period as part of the defensive spiritual network protecting the eastern provinces. The shrine gained prominence due to its strategic location controlling river and maritime routes, and was historically supported by the Fujiwara clan and later the Tokugawa shogunate.