Japanese shrines

蓼科神社奥社

蓼科神社奥社

Nagano

Koen-ko Shrine, located in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture, is a remote Shinto shrine dedicated to Koen-ko, the deity of the mountain and forest. This shrine is one of few remaining shrines in Japan that still maintains its traditional Nara-period architecture, making it a rare glimpse into the country's ancient history. The shrine's surroundings are characterized by dense forests and rugged terrain, reflecting the harsh yet serene environment that inspired the local deity.

鉾持神社

鉾持神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 鉾持神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Okumaya no Okami, a local deity revered for its power over rice and agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a provider of fertility and prosperity for the surrounding region.

金毘羅神社

金毘羅神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Kinrobo-jinja Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity Kinrobo, a kami associated with industry and commerce. The shrine's architecture reflects its regional style, blending traditional elements with modern design. As one of the oldest shrines in the region, it offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Nagano.

羽広神社

羽広神社

Nagano

Hatsuhinode Festival is a notable event at this shrine, celebrated on January 1st to mark the beginning of the new year. The shrine's primary enshrinement is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the storm god and brother of Amaterasu.

いき神社

いき神社

Nagano

Iki no Ma Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the kami Iki no Ma, revered as a patron deity of the town's rice fields and agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Heian period style, with a wooden torii gate and a main hall featuring a tiled roof. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine's gardens, which are said to be a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring. In addition to its natural beauty, the shrine is also famous for its unique 'yuki no tsuru' (snow cranes) statue, created from recycled materials and located at the base of the torii gate.

片山稲荷神社

片山稲荷神社

Nagano

Taka-yama Inari Shrine, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is one of the many shrines dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. The shrine's name translates to 'mountain field Inari,' reflecting its rural setting and spiritual connection to agriculture. Visitors can explore the shrine's wooden torii gate, dedicated torii gates for horses and wagons, and multiple smaller shrines housing various regional kami.

蒼守稲荷大明神

蒼守稲荷大明神

Nagano

Located in the prefecture of Nagano, 蒂守稲荷大明神 Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity of prosperity and good fortune, Amaterasu Omikami, as well as other kami such as Inari Okami and Kojin. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, reflecting the region's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings and experience the tranquil atmosphere of this historic site.

山神

山神

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Yamagami Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the mountain kami and enshrined with multiple deities, including Yamatsumi-oki no kami. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, featuring a large torii gate, wooden structures, and a serene garden. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which are said to be blessed by the kami, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty of the mountain.

大芝神社

大芝神社

Nagano

Located in the city of Komagane, Nagano Prefecture, Daijibashi Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine's primary enshrined kami is not explicitly stated but is believed to be related to the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can observe a unique stone lantern, known as a 'tōrō,' in front of the shrine, which is adorned with intricate carvings.

伊那東大社

伊那東大社

Nagano

Ihuna East Grand Shrine, located in the town of Kakunodate in Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant shrines. Built in 1600 as a reconstruction of the original shrine, it has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires and wars. The current structure dates back to 1961. Dedicated to the Shinto deity Hachiman, Ihuna East Grand Shrine is renowned for its striking architecture and historic significance.

上伊那招魂社

上伊那招魂社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 上伊那招魂社 (Kamoina Yashima) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity of Inazuma Mikoto. The shrine, situated near the village of Iizuna Kogen, serves as an important cultural and spiritual center for locals and tourists alike.

御嶽神社御祓殿

御嶽神社御祓殿

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, 御嶽神社御祓殿 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of wind and thunder, known as Fujin. The shrine is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Yamanouchi, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This historic shrine has been an important pilgrimage site for centuries, attracting visitors seeking blessings for good weather and prosperity.

飯笠山神社

飯笠山神社

Nagano

Fuda-no-Sato Shrine, dedicated to the deity Hara-hime, is located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles, with a wooden torii gate and tiled roof. The shrine complex also features several small shrines and prayer stalls, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors. Located at the foot of Mt. Inazuma, the shrine offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

髙井大室神社

髙井大室神社

Nagano

Hakui Daijuson Shrine in Nakagatsumo, Nagano Prefecture is a minor Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and the mountain. The shrine is situated near the border with Yamanashi Prefecture and is renowned for its unique architecture. A historic route known as Nakasendo traverses through this area, adding to the significance of the shrine.

三俣八幡神社

三俣八幡神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, three-pearl Shrine of Hachiman is dedicated to the Shinto god of war and patron deity of the Yamato dynasty. Founded in 718 AD during the Nara period, this shrine has been a significant site for over 1,300 years. Its unique architecture reflects the Heian-style temple complexes of old Japan. Visitors can explore the serene gardens, walk along the Nakasendo trail that passes through the shrine grounds, or learn about its history and mythology at the on-site museum.

東福寺神社

東福寺神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano city, Tōshū-ji Temple is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, with a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The temple complex features a unique blend of architectural styles, including elements from Chinese Buddhism and native Japanese design. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens and grounds, which are believed to be blessed by the enshrined deity, Susanoo-no-Kami.

川中島古戦場八幡社

川中島古戦場八幡社

Nagano

Located in the Nagano Prefecture, 川中島古戦場八幡社 is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of war, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, and also enshrines the kami of Mount Tamagawa. The shrine's name reflects its location near an ancient battlefield, and it is said to have been established during the Nara period (710-794 CE). The shrine's architecture is a mix of traditional and modern elements, with a main hall dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto featuring intricate wooden carvings. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a museum showcasing artifacts related to the Battle of Sekigahara, fought nearby in 1600.

廣田神社

廣田神社

Nagano

The Shirakawai Shrine, located in the Nagano prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity known as Shirakawa-taisanokami, who is believed to have been a patron of agriculture and fertility. This shrine has been an important cultural center for the local community, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, including its historic torii gate.

岡神明神社

岡神明神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano, Okami no Mikoto Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Okami no Mikoto, a kami believed to have been associated with the forest and hunting. The shrine's current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868), although the site itself has been in use since ancient times. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum to learn more about the history of the area and the mythology surrounding Okami no Mikoto.

藤原神社

藤原神社

Nagano

藤原神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Daigo and his wife Empress Saimei. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a site associated with the Fujiwara clan, a powerful family that ruled Japan during the Heian period. Visitors can observe the traditional vermilion torii gate, which marks the entrance to the shrine grounds.

秋葉神社

秋葉神社

Nagano

Akizuki Shrine, located in the mountains of central Japan's Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess Akizuki, also known as the 'Mountain Goddess'. The shrine's main hall and torii gate are decorated with traditional Japanese architecture, reflecting its Heian-era origins. Visitors can explore the adjacent forest, which is said to be inhabited by various kami, including Akizuki's sister, Tama-no-kagami. In the autumn, locals celebrate the 'Akizuki Matsuri' festival in honor of the goddess.

槌井神社

槌井神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 槌井神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami, Ryujin. The shrine's name, 槌井, refers to its proximity to a wooden mill that once stood at the site. With roots dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE), 槌井神社 has maintained its cultural significance as a spiritual center for the local community.

大塚神社

大塚神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture,大塚神社 (Otuka Jinja) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess. The shrine's name translates to 'Great Hill Shrine', and its location on a hilltop offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Founded in 1483 during the Muromachi period, Otuka Jinja is one of the oldest shrines in Nagano Prefecture.

於佐加神社

於佐加神社

Nagano

於佐加神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Itoigawa, Nagano Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Okuninushi, a kami associated with agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical connection to the Edo period, with a traditional torii gate and a hondo (main hall) featuring a tiled roof.