Japanese shrines

Zengo Shinmeisha Shrine

前後神明社

Gifu

Zengo Shinmeisha is a Shinmei shrine in Gifu Prefecture dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. As a Shinmei shrine, it follows the architectural and ritual traditions associated with the worship of Japan's most revered Shinto deity, maintaining the pure and austere aesthetic characteristic of shrines dedicated to the imperial ancestral kami.

Zeniarai Benten

銭洗い弁天

Gunma

Located in the city of Tateyama, Gunma Prefecture, Zeniarai Benten Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, a patron deity of artisans, merchants, and those seeking good fortune. The shrine's name, Zeniarai, translates to 'gold washing', referring to its historical association with gold mining in the region. Visitors can see the remains of an old mine near the shrine entrance.

Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine

銭洗弁天 宇賀福神社

Kanagawa

Zenigata Jinja

銭形神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Sendai, Zenigata Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of wealth and prosperity, with a history dating back to the 16th century. The shrine's name, Zenigata, roughly translates to 'silver beard', possibly referring to an ancestor or the deity's association with silver jewelry. Visitors can see a number of treasures on display, including the shrine's famous golden torii gate.

Zoi Hachiman Shrine

増威八幡社

Kanagawa

Zozan Shrine

象山神社

Nagano

Zozan Shrine, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection and prosperity of travelers. The shrine's name, Zozan, literally means 'path' or 'way', reflecting its role as a guardian of the roads that wind through the Japanese Alps.

白和龍王大神

白龍神社

Yamanashi

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Yamanashi,白龍神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the dragon god Hachiman Ō no Okami, revered as the patron deity of scholars and warriors. The shrine is situated near the Kanto Plain, an area historically significant for its role in the Nara period's rise to power. With its traditional architecture and serene surroundings, 白龍神社 offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

白赤稲荷大伸 Fushimi Hakuseki Inari Shrine

白赤稲荷大伸

Kanagawa

Located in Fukuoka, the capital city of Kyushu, Fushimi Hakuseki Inari Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines dedicated to Inari Okami, the deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's name 'Hakuseki' means 'enlightened imperial road', signifying its connection to the imperial court. The shrine's architecture reflects a traditional Japanese style, with a majestic torii gate and a serene garden. Visitors can walk through the forested paths and take in the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual renewal.