Located in the town of Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, Hekozaki Sugorokuen Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Hekozaki Sugoroku and O-otori-kami. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a resting place for travelers and traders. As one of the 33 major shrines in Japan, it has been an important cultural and spiritual hub since the Heian period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hekozaki Sugoroku
- Kami enshrined
- O-otori-kami, Hekozaki Sugoroku
- Coordinates
- 35.9860974, 139.7530382
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filters through the trees, creating dappled shadows on the grounds.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its annual O-otori festival, which celebrates the sacred waters of the nearby Kashima Bay. During this festival, participants reenact a mythological procession to honor Hekozaki Sugoroku and ensure safe passage across the sea.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), Hekozaki Sugorokuen Shrine was originally a humble shrine dedicated to the local god, Hekozaki Sugoroku.