Japanese shrines

日方磐神社

日方磐神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Dayō Hasegijinsha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hasegi Kami. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical connection to the region's rice cultivation practices and the importance of agriculture during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Dayō Hasegijinsha has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government, highlighting its significance in preserving traditional Shinto practices.

山祇神社

山祇神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Mount Nyoin Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the mountain and fertility, Nyoin. With its scenic location amidst lush greenery, the shrine offers a serene escape from urban life. Visitors can explore the beautifully maintained grounds, including several teahouses and a stunning garden.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Nagano

The shrine is dedicated to the Shinto kami of the village of Murayama, located near the source of the Shinano River in Nagano Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a rectangular torii gate and a large main hall. Inari Okunoin, a nearby cemetery for those who have died from illness or starvation, is said to be the final resting place of the Shinto god of rice, rice goddess Inari, as well as various other local deities.

石上神社

石上神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Ishikawa no Okami Shrine is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Ishikawa no Okami, the patron deity of the region's surrounding mountains and forests. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as one of the oldest shrines in the area, with influences from traditional Nagano-style temples. Visitors can explore the tranquil gardens and serene surroundings, offering a glimpse into rural Japanese life.

遠山八幡神社

遠山八幡神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Ryōman Hachiman-gū is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hachiman Okami, a kami associated with war, medicine, and education. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens, tranquil atmosphere, and rich history dating back to 746 CE when it was established as a minor shrine by Emperor Junnin. Over time, the shrine's significance grew, and it became an important site for pilgrims and scholars alike. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, gardens, and museum to learn more about its history and cultural significance.

白山権現神社

白山権現神社

Nagano

White Mountain Shrine, dedicated to the deity of the sacred mountain Akaishi in Nagano Prefecture, is a revered Shinto site located at the foot of the Japanese Alps. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble forest temple, with traditional wooden structures and tranquil gardens that echo the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. Over time, the shrine has evolved to incorporate elements from various historical periods, including those of the Heian era.

平澤山神社

平澤山神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the平泽山神社 shrine is a sacred site nestled among the mountains of Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami Enma, known as the god of the underworld and ruler of the dead, this Shinto shrine embodies the region's rich cultural heritage and spiritual connection with nature.

墨坂神社鳥居

墨坂神社鳥居

Nagano

located in the town of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Matsukawa-zaka Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity Hachiman, patron god of war and commerce. As a key landmark in Matsumoto, the shrine is also known for its impressive torii gate.

天満宮

天満宮

Nagano

Tenshū-myō is a Shinto shrine in the city of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine's current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867). Tenshū-myō is notable for its unique architecture, which combines elements of traditional Japanese and Chinese design. Visitors can pray for success in business and education by tossing coins into the shrine's coin slot.

西宮神社

西宮神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano,西宮神社 is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the 7th century. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, it is a prime example of Heian-period architecture and design.

天神社

天神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Tenjin Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning, literature, and science, Sugawara no Michizane. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and the legend that Michizane's spirit helps students with their studies.

若宮神社

若宮神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Ifuki Shrine is dedicated to the kami Inari, revered as the patron deity of rice and prosperity. The shrine is nestled at the foot of Mount Koma, a sacred site with a long history dating back to the Heian period. Visitors can explore the intricately carved wooden structures and admire the vibrant vermilion gates that paint the surrounding landscape with vibrant colors.

戸隠神社中社

戸隠神社中社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Shōrin-jinsha no Nakatsugawa-sona is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and mountains. Founded in 1842, it is one of the oldest shrines in Nagano Prefecture, with a history dating back to the Edo period.

戸隠神社宝光社

戸隠神社宝光社

Nagano

The Kiso-dera Hoshinjinsha Treasure Hall Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano. Dedicated to the treasures and relics of the ancient Buddhist temple that once stood on the site, it was originally known as the 'Treasure House Shrine' (Toshogu-sha), before taking its current name. In 1621, Lord Hachiman was invited by the shrine's priest to pray for safety during a conflict in the Kiso valley, and thus the primary enshrined deity became the god of war and victory. The shrine is notable for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

深田稲荷社

深田稲荷社

Nagano

Deepida Inari Shrine, located in the town of Oku Izuno in Nagano Prefecture, is a well-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and industry, Inari Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects its Edo period origins, with a traditional gasshoin (hall) and shoin (dining hall) design. Visitors can see numerous fox statues, known as kitsune, which are believed to be messengers of the kami, surrounding the shrine grounds.

秋葉神社

秋葉神社

Nagano

Akioyama Shrine, located in the picturesque town of Iwataki, Nagano Prefecture, is a sacred site dedicated to the Shinto deities. The shrine's name, 'Akioyama,' translates to 'Autumn Leaf Hill' in English, reflecting its stunning autumn foliage. Built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the shrine's architecture showcases traditional Japanese design, with a majestic torii gate and intricately carved wooden structures. Visitors can experience the serenity of this historic site while exploring its peaceful surroundings.

熊野神社

熊野神社

Nagano

Narita-san Shinshu Okuno Ichinen-tai is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility, rice harvests and prosperity. Located in Nagaoka City, Gunma Prefecture, it was originally constructed at Mount Narita in 718 AD but rebuilt and relocated at its current site in 1868. The shrine's main building features traditional Japanese architecture with five-story pagodas on either side, while the grounds include a beautiful garden and several stone lanterns. Visitors can participate in rituals to ensure fertility or seek blessings for new endeavors.

諏訪社

諏訪社

Nagano

Temple of the Village Head, a Shinto shrine in Nagano dedicated to Ōkuninushi Okami, revered as the god of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design with a vermilion torii gate and a tranquil forested setting. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, including a sacred pond and a museum showcasing the history and culture of the area.

空港東天満宮

空港東天満宮

Nagano

Located in the city of Matsumoto, Airport East Tenmangu Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the god of learning and literature, Sugawara no Michizane. It is said that during World War II, American planes crashed near the shrine while on their way to China. The shrine's unique architectural style reflects its proximity to the airport, with modern facilities added in 2007. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature a replica of the Tenjin Shrine in Osaka, and learn about the history of the shrine.

笠森稲荷神社

笠森稲荷神社

Nagano

Sengan Forest Inari Shrine, located in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture, is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the Shinto kami of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's unique architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional wooden buildings and a serene forest atmosphere. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several shrines, temples, and walking trails, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.

都波岐神社

都波岐神社

Nagano

Dōboji Shrine, located in the town of Shinshiro, Nagano Prefecture, is a serene Shinto temple dedicated to the worship of water and fertility kami. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a sacred site for agriculture and fishing, with a distinctive curved roof resembling a boat. Visitors can still see the remains of an old bridge that once connected the shrine to the nearby mountainside.

長野縣護國神社

長野縣護國神社

Nagano

Long-established shrine in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, dedicated to a powerful kami of protection and governance.

千歳宮

千歳宮

Nagano

Chūsai-kyō is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the kami of longevity and good fortune. The shrine's main deity is Tsukuyomi-no-Kami, the god of the moon, but it also enshrines other deities associated with health, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Shinto styles, with a distinctive roofline and ornate torii gate. Chūsai-kyō is particularly famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and is visited by locals seeking blessings for good health and longevity.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Nagano

諏訪神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Kiso, Nagano Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the kami Fujimaru, who is believed to control the power of rice and fertility. As one of the most important shrines in the Kiso region, 諏訪神社 plays an essential role in local festivals and ceremonies. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, which features a unique roof design and ornate decorations. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful gardens and scenic surroundings.