Soshu Kasuga Shrine is a Kasuga-type shrine located in Kanagawa Prefecture, part of the network of shrines connected to the famous Kasuga Taisha in Nara. Like other Kasuga shrines, it serves as a regional center for worship of the protective deities associated with the Fujiwara clan and military protection.
- Denomination
- Kasuga
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto, Futsunushi-no-mikoto, Amenokoyane-no-mikoto, Himegami
- Founding
- Heian period
- Coordinates
- 35.3852106, 139.492453
Visitor tip
Look for the characteristic red torii gates and lanterns typical of Kasuga-style shrines.
Cultural notes
Kasuga shrines are known for their association with deer as sacred messengers, their distinctive vermillion architecture, and their role in protecting both the imperial court and local communities through the powerful kami of thunder and military might.
Historical note
As indicated by its name 'Soshu' (an old name for Sagami Province, roughly corresponding to present-day Kanagawa Prefecture), this shrine was established as a branch of Kasuga Taisha to extend the influence and protection of the Kasuga deities into the Kanto region. Kasuga branch shrines were typically founded during the Heian period when the Fujiwara clan's power was at its peak.