Lin no Kami-sha, located in the Hakone-Iwataki region of Kanagawa Prefecture, is a small Shinto shrine dedicated to Lin-no-Kami, a kami associated with forests and wildlife. The shrine's architecture reflects the local Mikawa Province style, characterized by wooden buildings with tiled roofs. Lin no Kami-sha has undergone several renovations since its founding during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), but its original structure remains a testament to Japan's rich Shinto heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- LinnoKami
- Kami enshrined
- Lin-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.4579324, 139.3464425
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural surroundings, visitors are advised to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and golden, allowing for serene photographs of the forest and surrounding mountains.
Cultural notes
Lin no Kami-sha is connected to the mythology of the Lin-no-Kami, a kami believed to be responsible for the fertility of the forest. During the spring equinox festival (Shunbun no Sei), visitors can participate in traditional Shinto rituals and purification ceremonies at the shrine.
Historical note
Lin no Kami-sha was rebuilt in 1693 after a fire destroyed the previous shrine.