Nikko's Bear Mountain Shrine, dedicated to Ryujin, the Dragon God of the Sea, is a prominent Shinto site located in Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical connection to the Takeda clan, who built the adjacent Toshogu Shrine in memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional gardens and observe the sacred Torii gate.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryujin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryujin, Kami of the Sea
- Coordinates
- 36.3569453, 140.1148634
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's torii gate at dawn or dusk for the best photography opportunities, and be sure to make an offering of sake before entering the sacred grounds.
Cultural notes
The shrine is known for its associations with Ryujin, as well as the mythological creature of the same name that is said to reside within the mountain. The shrine also hosts a traditional summer festival in mid-August.
Historical note
Built during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) as a subsidiary shrine to the more famous Ryuzen Shrine.