Japanese shrines

神明社 拝殿

神明社 拝殿

Saitama

Godai-ya is a historic Shinto shrine in Iwatsuki, Saitama Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of fire and metalwork. Founded in 718 CE during the Nara period, it is one of Japan's oldest shrines. The shrine complex features a large hall with sliding doors known as genkan, which serves as an entrance. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese architecture while exploring Godai-ya.

本殿

本殿

Saitama

This Shinto shrine in Saitama Prefecture is dedicated to the worship of Amaterasu, the sun goddess and a prominent deity in Japanese mythology. The shrine's architecture is characterized by its traditional Japanese design, featuring a vermilion torii gate and a five-story pagoda. Visitors can participate in the annual Summer Festival (Natsu Matsuri) to celebrate the shrine's patron kami.

天神社

天神社

Saitama

Tenshinsha is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Saitama city, dedicated to the deity Tsukuyomi, the god of moon and lightning. The shrine's architecture reflects its Heian period origins, with a simple but elegant design featuring a vermilion torii gate and a rectangular hall. Tenshinsha is known for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional festivals, such as the Spring equinox festival (Shunbun no Hi) and the Star Festival (Tanabata).

塩船神明社

塩船神明社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama, 塩船神明社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Kamikokuryu, the Heavenly Dragon god, and also enshrines Mikoto Narimono, a deity revered by sailors and fishermen for good fortune at sea. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a coastal temple, with a wooden torii gate and a hall dedicated to maritime deities.

道祖土神明社

道祖土神明社

Saitama

Hokuto Taishakuya Shrine, located in Saitama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and the patron deity of the region's rice paddies. The shrine's name, Dozotsumiinoshima, roughly translates to 'the land that was discovered by the god,' reflecting its connection to the mythical figure who first inhabited the area. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, which feature a serene pond and traditional wooden structures.

熊野宮

熊野宮

Saitama

Kumano Shrine, located in the heart of Japan, is a prominent Shinto shrine dedicated to the Kumano-kami, deities believed to reside at the Kumano region in Wakayama Prefecture. Despite its name, the shrine was not originally affiliated with this region but rather was established in 718 CE by Emperor Shōmu to honor the local deity, Okuninushi. Over time, it has developed strong ties with the regional kami and now serves as a major Shinto site for worship and ritual practices.

多摩野神社

多摩野神社

Saitama

多摩野神社, located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, revered as the patron deity of rice and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style, with a vermilion torii gate and a tranquil garden. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall and grounds, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Kamakura, the Meireki Jishu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the deity of rice and fertility. The shrine was founded in 1633 during the Kan'ei era, and its architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a large torii gate and wooden buildings.

一の宮神社

一の宮神社

Saitama

One-no-miya Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Miyukaku, Saitama Prefecture. The shrine is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and historic wooden torii gate. Founded in 1653, One-no-miya Jinja is dedicated to the deity of the moon, Tsukiyomi no Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble farmstead shrine, with a traditional Japanese-style main hall and a rustic wooden torii gate.

八雲社

八雲社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama,八雲社 (Hachiman-jinja) is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of warriors. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a temple during the Nara period, with a main hall featuring a classic tamagaki roof style. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens, offering a peaceful escape from modern-day urban life.

熊野社稲荷社

熊野社稲荷社

Saitama

Bear Mountain Shrine, located in Saitama Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines and a prominent site for the Japanese New Year (Oshogatsu) festival. It is known as Inari Okuninushi, the kami enshrined here being Inari Okamori Hoshigusa-no-kami. The shrine's distinctive architecture features many vermilion torii gates, which are said to symbolize the unity of heaven and earth. Visitors can make offerings to Inari at the shrine's main hall or by leaving rice cakes and sake at designated stalls.

雷電神社氷川神社

雷電神社氷川神社

Saitama

Located in the scenic town of Minami-Sōka, in Saitama Prefecture, 雷電神社氷川神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Raijin and Hiyokozaka no Okami, kami associated with lightning, thunder, and the god of the mountain. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Heian-era Japan, with a wooden torii gate and a stone shrine that dates back to the 18th century.

明神社

明神社

Saitama

Mitogami-ya Shrine, located in the town of Hitachi-ozuka in Saitama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of rice and agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as an important stopping point for travelers on the Nakasendo Road. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional torii gate, which has been beautifully restored.

大龍大権現社

大龍大権現社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Hitachi Seaside, the Ōrō Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Ryūjin, the Shinto god of the sea and storms, as well as Ryūmyō-o no kami, the god of dragons. As one of Japan's most famous shrines, it attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique blend of Shinto and Buddhist traditions. The shrine is also known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

稲荷社

稲荷社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, Sensō-ji is one of Japan's most famous and iconic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess, the shrine features a distinctive red lantern and a large torii gate. The site has been revered for centuries, with evidence of its existence dating back to the 8th century.

武蔵野稲荷神社

武蔵野稲荷神社

Saitama

Wakazusa-ya Hachiman Shrine, located in the scenic region of Musashino, Saitama Prefecture, is one of Japan's most revered shrines dedicated to the deity Hachiman, patron god of warriors and travelers. The shrine is nestled among lush forests and rolling hills, evoking a sense of serenity and tranquility. As you explore the shrine grounds, discover ancient artifacts, historical relics, and the tranquil beauty of nature.

摩利支天神社

摩利支天神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Tokyo's western suburbs, 摩利支天神社 is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity, Izanami no Okami, and his wife Izanagi no Okami. As the god of creation, it is believed that he formed the islands of Japan from a single stone. Visitors can walk along the tranquil gardens and ponds, surrounded by traditional Japanese architecture, which reflects the shrine's rich cultural heritage.

苗間明神神社

苗間明神神社

Saitama

Miyamakayashima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Miyamaka, Saitama Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the kami of local farmers and is said to be one of the oldest shrines in Saitama. The shrine's main hall is a traditional Japanese-style structure with a tiled roof and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

駒形神社

駒形神社

Saitama

Located in the town of Miyukawashi, Saitama Prefecture, 駒形神社 is a small Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine is famous for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and traditional architecture, which reflects the style characteristic of ancient Japanese temples during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine's gardens and admire the beautifully designed wooden structures.

天祖神社

天祖神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Japan's technology hub, the Tenzū-gami Shrine in Saitama Prefecture honors the Kami of Heaven and Earth. Dedicated to the worship of the divine powers that govern the natural world, this Shinto shrine is a testament to the region's rich spiritual heritage. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine grounds, surrounded by lush greenery and majestic trees.

弁財天神社

弁財天神社

Saitama

Located in Saitama, Bensui-teien-sha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of water and prosperity. The name 'Bensui' means 'water that never dries up', reflecting the shrine's association with the life-giving power of water. As one of the oldest shrines in Saitama, it has a rich history dating back to the 8th century. The shrine complex features traditional Japanese architecture, including a wooden torii gate and a serene garden. Visitors can experience the tranquility of this historic site while seeking blessings for good fortune and abundance.

針ケ谷氷川神社

針ケ谷氷川神社

Saitama

Poki-kegai Hikokuryu Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Miyūka, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the kami of the local stream and was originally established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Over time, it has undergone several renovations and expansions, with the current structure dating back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE). Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine's gardens and streams, which are said to be inhabited by the local kami. In addition, the shrine is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful autumn foliage.

上南畑神社

上南畑神社

Saitama

Above South Field Shrine, located in the heart of Kamakura's historic district, is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the worship of the god of good luck and prosperity, Inari Okami. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings invite visitors to reflect on the harmony between nature and humanity.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Ibaraki, Saitama, and part of the Narita Sanzan sacred sites, 稲荷神社 (Inari Shrine) is a significant Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice, prosperity, and good fortune. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles with its vermilion gates, wooden torii, and beautiful gardens. Inari Shrine has been an important center for Shinto worship and has played a role in the region's history.