Located in the town of Ikega, Ibaraki Prefecture, 鹿島神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and the legend of the 'Hokuryu', a mythical deer said to appear only once every 100 years during the winter solstice festival. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and drinks while praying for good fortune, health, and happiness.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.2943934, 140.4593072
Visitor tip
When visiting the shrine during the winter solstice festival, try to arrive early to see the Hokuryu deer before it disappears into the forest.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is a revered kami in Japanese mythology, often depicted as a deity of rice, prosperity, and fertility. The shrine's torii gate is adorned with thousands of prayer paper offerings (ema) from devotees wishing for good luck and success.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1641 by the local daimyo, Tokugawa Yoshimune.