Japanese shrines

Main Shrine

本殿

Shiga

The Main Shrine in Shiga Prefecture is a sacred site dedicated to the worship of the kami Inari Okami, known as Oinari-san. As one of the most important shrines in Japan, it attracts millions of visitors every year seeking blessings and good fortune. The shrine's architecture reflects its rich history, with a wooden torii gate that dates back to the 17th century. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature numerous small shrines dedicated to various kami and deities.

Main Shrine

本殿

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama, the Main Shrine is a tranquil oasis that embodies the serene spirit of Shintoism. This historic shrine has been a sacred site for over two centuries, attracting visitors from all over Japan with its stunning architecture and profound connection to nature. As one of the oldest shrines in the prefecture, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of traditional Japanese culture.

Main Shrine

本殿

Kanagawa

Maioka Shrine

舞岡神社

Kanagawa

Maioka Shrine is a local Shinto shrine located in the Maioka area of Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. As a community shrine, it serves the spiritual needs of local residents and maintains traditional Shinto practices in this suburban district of Yokohama.

Makado Shrine

摩訶戸神社

A Shinto shrine dedicated to deities associated with entrance ways, boundaries, and protection. The name 'Makado' relates to sacred gateways and thresholds, reflecting the shrine's spiritual significance as a place where the physical and spiritual worlds meet.

Make-jinja

摩氣神社

京都府 · 南丹市

Located in the city of Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture, Mokui-jinja Shrine is a serene and historic Shinto site dedicated to the deity of thunder and lightning, Mokui-tsurugi-no-kami. This shrine is known for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Japanese design with elements of Chinese culture. The shrine's main hall, haiden, features a distinctive dragon-like roof and a large, ornate gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful gardens, adorned with cherry blossoms and other traditional plants, and experience the tranquility that Mokui-tsurugi-no-kami is said to bring.

Makino Shinmei Shrine

牧野神明社

Gifu

Makino Shinmei Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Gifu Prefecture dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and supreme deity of the Shinto pantheon. As a Shinmei shrine, it follows the architectural and ritual traditions associated with shrines dedicated to Amaterasu, characterized by simple, elegant wooden construction that emphasizes purity and natural materials.

Makino Shrine

牧野神社

Aichi · Toyohashi

Makino Shrine is a local Shinto shrine located in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, serving as a community spiritual center for the surrounding residential area. Like many neighborhood shrines throughout Japan, it provides a place for local residents to pray for protection, prosperity, and community well-being.

Mame Hachiman Shrine

間米八幡社

Gifu

A local Hachiman shrine in Gifu Prefecture dedicated to the divine spirit of Emperor Ojin and associated deities. As part of the extensive Hachiman shrine network throughout Japan, it serves the spiritual needs of the local community while maintaining the traditional worship practices associated with this important Shinto denomination.

Mamizuka Shinmei Shrine

馬見塚神明社

Mamizuka Shinmei Shrine is a local Shinmei shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and principal deity of Shinto. As a Shinmei shrine, it follows the architectural and ritual traditions associated with Ise Grand Shrine.

Manai Shrine

真名井神社

Kyoto

Manai Shrine, located in Kyoto Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine's primary deity, Manai, is believed to be a local god associated with the region's water sources and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall featuring a tiled roof and a serene garden. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, including a peaceful pond and walking trails surrounding the temple.

Manba Suwa Jinja

万場諏訪神社

Nagano

Manba Suwa Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine is situated near Lake Karuizawa, a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty. According to local legend, Manba Suwa was a powerful deity who protected the region from wild beasts and misfortune. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Mandokoro Tenmansha Shrine

政所天満社

Oita

A Tenjin shrine in Oita Prefecture dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deified scholar and politician who became the patron deity of learning and literature. Like other Tenmansha shrines throughout Japan, it serves as a place where students and families pray for academic success and scholarly achievement.

Manshiro Shrine

Fukuoka

Manshiro Shrine, located in Fukuoka Prefecture, is a sacred site dedicated to the Shinto deity of the sea, Manshirō Okami. This shrine honors the god of fishing and prosperity, and its architecture reflects the traditional style of a Fukuoka-based shrine. Visitors can admire the shrine's beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere, which are said to be especially auspicious for those seeking good fortune in business or maritime endeavors.

Mantai Butsu

万体仏

Akita

Located in the heart of Akita Prefecture, Mantai Butsu Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the veneration of the Buddhist deity Amida Nyoirin. The shrine's name, 'Mantai Butsu,' roughly translates to 'All-Soul Buddha.' This unique blend of Shinto and Buddhist elements reflects the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings, adorned with traditional torii gates and beautifully crafted wooden structures.

Manzoku Inari Shrine

満足稲荷神社

東京都 · 文京区

Manzoku Inari Shrine, located in Setagaya Ward of Tokyo, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Inari Okami, revered as the patron of fertility, rice harvests, and industry. The shrine's name, Manzoku, means 'fulfillment' or 'abundance,' reflecting its association with prosperity and good fortune. Built in 1633 during the Edo period, the shrine features a unique architectural style blending traditional Shinto elements with Chinese influences.

Maruo San Shrine

丸尾三神社

Yamaguchi

Maruyama Daibenzaiten

円山大弁財天

Wakayama

A Benzaiten shrine located in Wakayama Prefecture dedicated to the Buddhist deity Benzaiten, who is venerated for wisdom, eloquence, music, and good fortune. Benzaiten is often associated with water and is considered one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese folk religion.

Maruyama Nishimachi Jinja

円山西町神社

北海道 · 札幌市

Located in the heart of Sapporo, Maruyama Nishimachi Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of good fortune and prosperity. The shrine's name reflects its location on the western slope of Mount Maruyama, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape. Built during the Edo period, the shrine's architecture showcases traditional Japanese designs, with a striking vermillion torii gate.

Maruyama Shrine

丸山神社

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Maruyama Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, Hachiman. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble mountain temple, with wooden structures and traditional torii gates. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which feature several temples and shrines within a single complex.

Maruyama shrine

丸山神社

Nara

Maruyama Shrine

満留山神社

Masakado no Kubizuka

将門の首塚

Chiba

Masakado no Kubizuka is a Shinto shrine located in Chiba Prefecture, dedicated to the enshrined deity Masakado, a legendary Kamakura-period daimyij who ruled over the region of Tsukushi. According to legend, Masakado was a warlord and naval commander who built a large fleet and sailed to China. He is often depicted as a powerful and authoritative figure in Japanese mythology. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a characteristic Kamakura-style gate post and a simple yet elegant main hall.

Masaki Inari Shrine

正木稲荷神社

Chiba

Masaki Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami, located in the town of Masaki in the prefecture of Chiba, Japan. The shrine complex includes several buildings and shrines, including the main hall, the vermillion torii gate, and the shrine for the god of agriculture, Takamatsunagi. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.