Shrines & temples

Japanese shrines

OSM directory

Explore Shinto shrines mapped from OpenStreetMap — filter by prefecture, city, or denomination. For curated travel listings, see featured landmark shrines below.

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1,298 shrines

長鳴神社

Miyagi

Longbeard Shrine, located in the Miyagi Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of fertility and agriculture. The shrine's name, Longbeard, is derived from the local dialect and refers to the long, bearded figure of the priest. According to legend, the shrine was established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) as a sanctuary for farmers and fishermen seeking protection and blessings.

道祖神社

Miyagi

Located in the historic city of Sendai, Dōzoshigahara Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Dōzoshizuka no Okami, a kami believed to have been worshipped by local farmers and fishermen since ancient times. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as one of the oldest shrines in Miyagi Prefecture.

荒雄神社

Miyagi

Located in the prefecture of Miyagi, Hara no Ōkami-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hara no Ōkami, revered as the kami of the forest and hunting. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall made from local cedar wood and a garden featuring native species. Although historical records are scarce, it is believed that the shrine was established during the Heian period.

新山神社

Miyagi

New mountain shrine, located in the heart of Sendai city, is dedicated to the Shintokyo kami (Mountain Kami). As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has played a significant role in the region's history and culture. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and serene gardens, which are said to be designed by the great Japanese landscape architect, Katsurahisa Hokanishi. Built during the Edo period, the current main hall was constructed in 1734, with a wooden structure that has been beautifully restored. The shrine is famous for its traditional New Year (Oshogatsu) festival, where visitors come to pray for good health and prosperity. The shrine's grounds also feature several historic landmarks, including the 'Shinmachi' (New Town), which was once a major commercial center in Sendai city. Today, the complex is a tranquil oasis from the bustling city streets.

駒形根神社

Miyagi

Kesennuma Shrine, located in Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, dating back to the 3rd century AD. The shrine's main deity, Sanyo-taijin-ryokan kami (God of Agriculture and Medicine), is believed to be a manifestation of the region's patron deity, Ryujin. Kesennuma Shrine is famous for its impressive shrine buildings, including the Haiden (main hall) and the Byodo-den (Peace Hall), which are modeled after the famous Buddhist temples of Japan. The shrine is also known for its unique 'tsukubai' stone basin, where visitors can purify their hands before entering the shrine.

保食神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Sendai, Aoba-ku, Miyagi Prefecture, Motsuji Hachiman-gu is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of the Taira clan. The shrine's current main hall dates back to 1708, but its history stretches over 700 years. In Japanese culture, food preservation and protection are closely tied to the concept of 'motsu,' or storage for safety. This name reflects the shrine's focus on these aspects.

金昆羅神社

Miyagi

金昆羅神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Higashi-Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Kuro no Kami, a kami associated with the sea and storms, as well as Inari Okami, patron deity of rice and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a coastal temple, with a distinctive roofed veranda and traditional Japanese garden.

通遖神社

Miyagi

Tōnan-jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Tōnan, Miyagi Prefecture, on the northeastern coast of Honshu, Japan's largest island. Dedicated to the deity Ise-no-Mikoto, it is believed to have been founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). As one of the oldest shrines in the Tohoku region, Tōnan-jinja has played a significant role in local history and culture.

丹後稲荷神社

Miyagi

Dan-no-ura Inari Shrine, located in the town of Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture, is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's name 'Dan-no-ura' refers to the famous naval battle during the Genpei War, where the forces of Minamoto no Yoshitsune defeated those of Taira no Kiyomori in 1185.

築館八幡神社

Miyagi

Bunkaku Temple Eight-Faced Bodhisattva Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. Dedicated to the protection of ships and sailors, the shrine is also revered as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and admire its traditional architecture.

道祖神社

Miyagi

Miyagi’s Zao-So Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity of fire and volcanoes, Zao-zu no Kami, known as the god of fire and steam. It is located in the scenic town of Kawarada on the southeastern coast of Miyagi Prefecture. Dedicated to this powerful kami, the shrine boasts unique architectural features that reflect its historical connection with volcanic activity.

白山神社

Miyagi

White Mountain Shrine, located in the heart of Miyagi Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity of the same name, believed to reside within the surrounding mountains. The shrine's history dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), during which it was an important center for Buddhism and Shintoism. Over time, the shrine has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, with the current structure dating back to the Edo period (1603-1867 CE). Visitors can explore the shrine's serene grounds, featuring a tranquil pond and a majestic torii gate.

皇大神社

Miyagi

Ryugu-daijin-ga-sha, the Imperial Palace god, has been enshrined at Imperial Palace Shrine in Nihon, with its current name 'Ōdaijinzō' since the Edo period. It was originally Shinto shrine dedicated to a local deity. Today it is one of the most important shrines in Japan and an important location for the emperor's birthday ceremony.

金田八幡神社

Miyagi

Koganeidate Hachiman Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture. Dedicated to the deity Hachiman, it is believed to have been built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine complex features a traditional Japanese architecture with a unique wooden torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's inner courtyard and take in the serene atmosphere.

白山神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, White Mountain Shrine is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the kami of Mount Zao and the region's natural beauty. The shrine is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, which reflect the harmony between nature and human civilization. White Mountain Shrine has been an important cultural and spiritual center for centuries, attracting visitors from all over the country.

皇太神社

Miyagi

Located in the heart of Miyagi Prefecture, the Imperial Palace Shrine ( also known as Ryohto Taisha) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu Omikami and her consort, the Moon God Tsukiyomi no kami. The shrine's current structure dates back to 1873, but its history spans over 1,500 years, with roots in the ancient Nara period. As one of Japan's most prestigious shrines, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Shinto culture and history.

道祖神社

Miyagi

Located in the heart of Miyagi Prefecture,道祖神社 is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's name '道祖' is derived from the Japanese word for 'path' or 'way,' symbolizing the importance of agricultural cycles and the connection between humans and nature.

祇園神社

Miyagi

Priseno Jinja, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of fertility and prosperity, Princess Priseno. Dedicated in 1875, it was one of the first Shinto shrines established during the Meiji period, as part of a campaign to revive Shintoism. The shrine is known for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens.

山王神社

Miyagi

Located in the scenic town of Sendai, Japan, Mount Aomori Shrine is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the mountain deity, Aomori no kami. According to local legend, the shrine was established on the site where a former samurai lord, Saito Daizenji, encountered the mountain spirit, and subsequently offered sacrifices to appease it. The shrine's architecture blends traditional Shinto styles with modern elements, reflecting its humble origins as a rural temple.

秋葉神社

Miyagi

Akibayashi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Matsumoto, Miyagi Prefecture. Dedicated to the god of the oak tree and autumn, it is one of the most famous shrines in Japan, attracting visitors from all over the country during the autumn foliage season.

羽黒神社

Miyagi

Located in the scenic city of Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture, Hachikō Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the legendary dog Hachikō, who waited at the shrine for his owner's return after being left behind on a train. The shrine is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of Matsushima Bay.

御岳神社

Miyagi

Located in the town of Miharu, Miyagi Prefecture, Ōdake Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of agriculture and fertility, Ōdake no Kami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional architecture. According to legend, Ōdake no Kami was born from a rock in the nearby Mt. Ōdake, which rises over 1,000 meters above sea level.

駒形根神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, 駒形根神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Ōkuninushi, known as the 'gods of harvest' and fertility. The shrine's name, 駒形根神社, literally translates to 'the shrine with the horse-shaped root.' According to local legend, this unique name refers to the shape of a large root system that was discovered beneath the shrine's foundation during its construction.

熊野神社

Miyagi

Bear's Cave Shrine, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is a Shinto site dedicated to the kami of Mount Zaratsu, the sacred mountains that surround Lake Towada. The shrine is built near a natural cave resembling a bear's den, which has become a symbol of the site. According to local legend, a priestess who lived during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) discovered the shrine while searching for a cure for her ailing son. She was guided by the appearance of a large bear in the area and found the cave, where she found an image of the deity that later became known as Zaratsu-hime no kami, or the Goddess of Mount Zaratsu.