Located in the Ibaraki Prefecture, Kashiwazuma Shrine is dedicated to the deities of fertility and agriculture, with a focus on the rice harvest. As one of the oldest shrines in the region, it showcases traditional Shinto architecture and serves as a spiritual hub for locals seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Izumi no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Izumi no Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.214446, 140.44987
Visitor tip
To enhance your experience, arrive at the shrine early in the morning to witness the sacred ritual of 'kaginawa,' a ceremony where visitors tie vermilion strings around the main torii gate in hopes of ensuring good fortune and fertility.
Cultural notes
As a symbol of fertility and agriculture, Kashiwazuma Shrine is often associated with the Shinto goddess Izanagi's wife, Izanami. The shrine's unique architectural feature is its 'shinmei' - an ancient tree believed to possess spiritual power. Locals may visit during the autumn harvest festival to seek blessings for their crops.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), Kashiwazuma Shrine has been an important center for agricultural worship ever since.