Kasamigasa Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection of warriors and the city of Sakura. The shrine's name, Kasamigasa, roughly translates to 'a parasol' or 'a canopy,' which may be due to its historical association with the town's founder, who used such as his symbol of protection. The shrine complex features a large torii gate, a three-story pagoda, and several smaller shrines dedicated to various kami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Kubikazemimonosukunozukami
- Coordinates
- 36.3395927, 140.5901865
Visitor tip
To get the most out of your visit, be sure to try some of the local specialties available at the shrine's food stalls, such as grilled trout and yuba (tofu skin) from the nearby river.
Cultural notes
Kasamigasa Shrine is notable for its association with Hachiman, a kami revered in Shintoism as the god of war. The shrine's festivals, which take place in May and October, are also significant, as they coincide with the traditional Japanese months of spring and autumn. During these festivals, visitors can expect to see traditional dances, music performances, and the distribution of sacred rice balls.
Historical note
Kasamigasa Shrine was originally founded in the Heian period (794-1185) by the town's founder, who claimed to have received a vision from the god of war, Hachiman, instructing him to establish a shrine in Sakura.