Japanese shrines

Junisho Shrine

十二所社

Gifu

A Shinto shrine in Gifu Prefecture dedicated to the twelve guardian deities. The name 'Junisho' literally means 'twelve places' or 'twelve shrines,' indicating a composite shrine that enshrines multiple kami.

Junisho Shrine

十二所神社

Junisho Shrine is dedicated to the twelve guardian deities of Buddhism that were syncretized with Shinto kami during Japan's period of shinbutsu-shugo (shrine-temple amalgamation). These shrines typically enshrine a combination of Buddhist protective deities and Shinto kami, reflecting the historical blending of religious traditions in Japan.

Jūnisō Kumano Shrine

十二社熊野神社

Tokyo

Jūnisō Kumano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to the worship of the Kumano region's primary deity, Susanoo. The shrine's history dates back to the 17th century when it was rebuilt after a fire destroyed the original structure during the Edo period. In 2013, the shrine underwent major renovations to restore its traditional architecture and improve accessibility for modern visitors. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautifully landscaped gardens, which feature various types of plants and trees native to the Kumano region.

Juzo Shrine

重蔵神社

Ishikawa · 石川県輪島市河井町

Juzo Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the scenic town of River Town, Katsuragi on the island of Reimen-to, Ishikawa Prefecture. Dedicated to Juzo Okami, a kami believed to watch over travelers and rivers, the shrine has a long history dating back to the 16th century. Its architectural style is a blend of traditional Shinto and Edo period designs.

Jyujyo-oji (Jyuten-oji)

十丈王子 (重点王子)

Wakayama

Jyuni-jinja

十二神社

Tokyo

Jyuni-jinja Shrine in Tokyo is dedicated to the twelve Shinto deities of the Japanese calendar, also known as Jūnishi. The shrine is a unique example of Edo-period architecture and is said to have been founded during the Edo period (1603-1867). Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a striking tiled roof and ornate decorations. During the New Year (Oshogatsu) festival, the shrine hosts a traditional prayer ceremony and festivities.

Kabuki Inari Shrine

歌舞伎稲荷神社

Chiba

Kabuki Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Tokyo's Asakusa district, but actually situated in Narita city, Chiba Prefecture. Dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the Shinto god of fertility, prosperity, and rice, this shrine is famous for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and stunning cherry blossom trees. The shrine is also known for its role in Japanese theatre, as it was once a popular venue for Kabuki performances.

Kabukichō Benzaiten

歌舞伎町弁天堂

Chiba

Located in the heart of Kabukichō, a historic entertainment district in Chiba Prefecture, Kabukichō Benzaiten Shrine is dedicated to the worship of Benzaiten, the Shinto goddess of culture, arts, and beauty. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a hub for creative expression, with intricate wooden carvings and vibrant colors adorning its walls. Visitors can experience the shrine's unique charm by attending one of its traditional festivals, such as the Benzaiten Matsuri, which takes place in June.

Kabushima Shrine

蕪嶋神社

青森県 · 八戸市

Kabushima Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity of the sea, located in Eightfold City, Aomori Prefecture. The shrine's name, meaning 'twin mountains,' refers to the twin peaks of Mt. Kabushi and nearby Mt. Sakigami, which are said to resemble two mountains. The shrine's architecture is a traditional Japanese style, with a wooden torii gate and a peaceful garden. Visitors can pray for good luck, prosperity, and protection from harm while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Kabuto Shrine

兜神社

Chiba

Kabuto Shrine, located in the town of Tsukuda in Chiba Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the samurai spirit and honor. The name 'Kabuto' refers to the helmet worn by Japanese warriors. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including the torii gate and the main hall, which features intricate carvings of kabuto designs. The shrine is also famous for its Kabuto Festival, held annually in August, where locals dress up in samurai costumes and parade through the streets.

Kabuto Shrine

兜神社

Fukushima

A Shinto shrine in Fukushima Prefecture whose name derives from 'kabuto' meaning helmet, suggesting possible connections to warrior culture or military history in the region.

Kabuto-yama Hachimangu Shrine

甲山八幡宮

Kabuto-yama Hachimangu is a Hachiman shrine dedicated to the deified Emperor Ojin and associated deities. As a Hachiman shrine, it serves as a center for worship of the god of war, archery, and divine protection, traditionally revered by samurai and military families.

Kada-Hachiman Jinja Shrine

蚊田八幡神社

石川県 · 白山市

Kada-Hachiman Jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Whitey City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman Ōkami, the god of war and patron deity of the imperial regalia. The shrine's architecture is characteristic of the Kamakura period style, with a simple yet elegant design featuring a large torii gate. Visitors can admire the shrine's beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

Kadoma Jinja

門真神社

Osaka

Located in the city of Kadoma, Osaka Prefecture, Kadoma Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and agriculture. The shrine's main hall is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture, with a tiled roof and sliding doors. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which feature several tranquil gardens and walking paths.

Kagami Shrine

鏡神社

Saga

Kagami Shrine, located in Saga Prefecture, is dedicated to the mirror kami of Japanese mythology. This shrine is believed to have been established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), and its architecture reflects the traditional styles of that era. The shrine's main hall features a distinctive curved roof and is adorned with intricate carvings depicting various mythological scenes. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens, which include a tranquil pond surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

Kagami Shrine

鏡神社

Nara

Kagami-jinja

鏡神社

京都府 · 南丹市

Kagami-jinja Shrine in Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of mirrors, Kagami-no-Kami. This unique deity is believed to protect and bless mirrors, as well as bring good fortune and prosperity to those who worship at the shrine. The shrine's architecture reflects this focus on reflective surfaces, with many buildings featuring intricately carved wooden facades that seem to ripple like water.

Kagamitama Shrine

鏡玉神社

Nara

Kagamitama Shrine is a Tenman shrine in Nara Prefecture dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deified scholar and politician. The shrine's name incorporates 'kagami' (mirror), one of the three sacred regalia of Japan, suggesting connections to imperial or sacred mirror symbolism in Shinto tradition.

Kagamitsukuri Maki Shrine

鏡作麻気神社

Nara

A shrine dedicated to Ishikoridome-no-mikoto, the kami of mirror-making and metalworking crafts. Located in the historic Kagamitsukuri region of Nara, this shrine has deep connections to ancient mirror craftsmen who served the imperial court. The shrine preserves traditions related to metalworking and is revered by artisans and craftspeople.

Kagamitsukuri-niimasu Amaterasu Mitama Shrine

鏡作坐天照御魂神社

Nara

A historic shrine in Nara Prefecture dedicated to Amaterasu Mitama-no-Kami, closely associated with the ancient craft of mirror-making. The shrine's name indicates its connection to the kagami-tsukuri (mirror makers) who served the imperial court, creating sacred bronze mirrors used in Shinto rituals and imperial regalia.

Kagata Shrine

加賀田神社

Osaka

Located in the heart of Osaka, Kagata Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity, Ōkita Inari, the patron kami of fishermen and the sea. The shrine's architecture reflects its importance as a sacred site for fishermen and the community. Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the shrine during festivals, such as the 'Tenjin Matsuri', which honors Inari with offerings and prayers. The shrine is also notable for its scenic location along the banks of the Osaka River.

Kagaya Tenmangu

加賀屋天満宮

Osaka

Kagaya Tenmangu Shrine, located in Osaka, is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity Sugawara no Michizane, a legendary Buddhist monk who was promoted to tenno (emperor) after his death. The shrine's architecture and design reflect traditional Japanese styles, with a distinctive torii gate and a pond surrounding its main hall. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.

Kagoshima Shrine

鹿児島神宮

鹿児島県 · 霧島市

Kagoshima Shrine

鹿児島神社

Kagoshima

Kagoshima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kagoshima Prefecture, serving as an important spiritual center for the local community and reflecting the unique cultural heritage of southern Kyushu.