Japanese shrines

Hōkoku-jinja

豊国神社

Shiga

Hokoku-jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture. Dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune, Hōkoku-gami, the shrine offers visitors a serene atmosphere amidst its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. The shrine's history dates back to 718 CE, during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan.

Hokokusha Shrine

報国社

Hokokusha is a type of Shinto shrine dedicated to honoring the spirits of those who died in military service. These shrines were established to commemorate fallen soldiers and promote patriotic values, particularly during Japan's period of military expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Hokotate Shrine

鉾立神社

Oita

A Shinto shrine located in Oita Prefecture, with a name that references 'hoko' (halberd or spear) and 'tate' (standing/erecting), suggesting possible connections to martial traditions or legendary weapons.

Hokumon-jinja Shrine

北門神社

北海道 · 稚内市

Hokumon-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Indigeneous Sapporo of Hokkaido, situated at the northernmost tip of Honshu. The shrine's primary deity is Okuninushi, a kami revered for its ability to purify and protect. Founded during the Heian period, it showcases traditional Japanese architectural styles. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding waters while praying or simply taking in the serene atmosphere.

Hokushin Shrine

北辰神社

Kanagawa

Hokushin Shrine is dedicated to the North Star deity and celestial navigation. The name 'Hokushin' literally means 'North Star' and reflects the shrine's connection to stellar worship and directional guidance traditions in Japanese folk religion.

Home Jinja Shrine

保目神社

Ibaraki

Located in the foothills of Mount Iwaki, the preserved remains of an old shrine complex can be seen at Home Jinja Shrine, a Shinto shrine that showcases traditional architecture. Dating back to the Edo period, the shrine was originally constructed during the Heian era, but much of its current structure is from the Meiji era. Visitors will notice a unique blend of old and new elements in the shrine's design. The shrine complex also includes an ancient cemetery and several other shrines dedicated to various regional kami.

Homi Shrine

穂見神社

Kanagawa

Located in the heart of Kamakura, Homi Shrine is a tranquil oasis that offers a glimpse into Japan's rich Shinto heritage. Dedicated to the deity Okuninushi, Homi Shrine is known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens, which serve as a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can explore the shrine's historic buildings, including the famous 'San-no-ichi-den' hall, and participate in traditional festivals held throughout the year.

Homusubi shirine - the fire diety

火産霊神祠

Hokkaido

Located in the heart of Hokkaido, the Homusubi Shirine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of fire and flame. This unique shrine is adorned with traditional Japanese architecture, including a torii gate and a hippon (inner courtyard). The shrine's design is inspired by the rugged landscape of Hokkaido, which has been shaped by volcanic eruptions and wildfires. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens and learn about the importance of fire in Shinto mythology.

Homusubi Shrine

火産霊神社

Shizuoka

Homusubi Shrine, located in the city of Ise, Shizuoka Prefecture, is dedicated to the spirit of fire and purification. This shrine is known for its unique architecture and cultural significance within the local community. According to Shinto tradition, Homusubi Shrine serves as a symbol of the divine energy that brings people together and fosters harmony. The shrine's design is inspired by traditional Japanese temple style, with a vermilion-colored main hall and a distinctive curved roof. Visitors can experience the tranquility of this sacred space while also appreciating its historical importance. Throughout the year, Homusubi Shrine hosts various festivals and rituals to honor the spirit of fire, which are deeply rooted in Shinto culture. These events are an excellent opportunity for visitors to connect with local customs and traditions.

Honden

本殿

Shiga

Located in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Honden Shrine is a revered Shinto site that has been serving the local community for centuries. Its name literally translates to 'main hall,' reflecting its importance as the central structure of the shrine complex. As one of Japan's oldest and most historic shrines, Honden Shrine boasts an architectural style characteristic of Edo-period (1603-1867) Shinto shrines.

Honden (Main Hall)

本殿

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Honden Shrine is a notable Shinto shrine dedicated to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it has been an important center for worship and cultural events since its founding in the 8th century. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design elements, with a main hall (honden) featuring a distinctive tiled roof and wooden columns.

Hongaku Shrine

本学神社

長野県 · 高森町

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Hongaku Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity Kamui, a powerful spirit believed to reside in the mountains. The shrine's name, 'Hongaku,' translates to 'Great Sage' or 'Great Spirit.' Founded during the Edo period, the shrine has undergone significant renovations and expansions over the years, with its current structure dating back to the Meiji era.

Hongō Shrine

本郷神社

神奈川県 · 海老名市

Hongo Shrine

本郷神社

Hongō Tenmangū Shrine

本郷天満宮

Kanagawa

Honkariya Shrine

本刈谷神社

Honkawahamaebisu Shrine

本川浜恵美須神社

Shimane

Honkawahamaebisu Shrine, located in the coastal town of Shimane Prefecture, is a tranquil Shinto sanctuary that honors Ebisu, the benevolent god of prosperity and good fortune. As one of the shrines dedicated to this esteemed kami, Honkawahamaebisu Shrine offers a serene escape from the bustling world. With its picturesque setting by the sea and historic significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Shintoism and Japanese culture.

Honmoku Shrine

本牧神社

Kanagawa

Hono Shrine

保野神社

Kochi

Honoh Honome Jinja Shrine Chugu

火男火売神社 中宮

Oita

Hora Shrine

洞神社

Gifu

Hora-jinja

洞神社

兵庫県 · 姫路市

Hora-jinja Shrine is a Shinto temple located in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. Dedicated to the god of wisdom and literature, it has been an important cultural center since its founding in 711 AD during the Nara period. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, featuring a combination of traditional Shinto and Chinese elements.

Horai Horai Shrine

宝来宝来神社

Kumamoto

A relatively modern shrine in Kumamoto Prefecture known for its association with good fortune and financial luck. The shrine's name, meaning 'treasure come, treasure come,' reflects its reputation as a place where visitors pray for prosperity and material blessings.

Horai Inari Shrine

蓬莱稲荷神社

Horai Inari Shrine is a local Inari shrine dedicated to the rice and prosperity deity Inari Okami. Like many Inari shrines throughout Japan, it serves the local community's needs for good harvests, business success, and general prosperity.