Japanese shrines

千勝神社

千勝神社

Shizuoka

Chiwa no Okuni Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kikugawa, Shizuoka Prefecture. Dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune, the shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. The shrine's history dates back to the Edo period, with records indicating that it was established during the 17th century.

能島神社

能島神社

Shizuoka

能島神社 is a Shinto shrine located on Izu Ōshima Island in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Dedicated to the god of the sea and fishing, it is believed to have been established during the Edo period (1603-1867). The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall covered in gold leaf and a distinctive vermilion torii gate. Visitors can participate in the annual Izu Ōshima Otohime Matsuri festival, which celebrates the goddess of the sea and features traditional dances and music.

奥の院八大竜王

奥の院八大竜王

Shizuoka

Located in the town of Ito, Shizuoka Prefecture, the shrine is dedicated to the eight great dragons (yōtō) known as the 'Ōtōin Yatagarasu'. According to legend, these deities were brought from the heavens by three imperial messengers and enshrined at this site. The shrine complex features a unique ' dragon hall' with a curved roof resembling a dragon's back.

六所神社

六所神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Sixaikan Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the kami Amaterasu Omikami and Shinto deities associated with fertility, prosperity, and good fortune. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'six gates' and is said to be built on the site where six people were saved from a great flood that occurred during the legend of the founding of Japan.

熊野神社

熊野神社

Shizuoka

Kuromon-gawa River, situated in the heart of Mt. Atago, serves as a sacred site for Kuromon okappuru (black fox spirit), an important kami enshrined at the shrine. The shrine's architecture reflects its connection to the natural environment and the mountainous region. The primary enshrined deity is Inari Okami. Kuromon-gawa River runs through the shrine grounds, symbolizing purification and renewal.

西宮えびす神社

西宮えびす神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Fujieda, Shizuoka Prefecture, Kamiya Jinsha Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Ebisu, patron deity of fishermen and traders. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Visitors can experience the tranquility of Japanese landscape design while walking through the serene grounds.

八幡神社

八幡神社

Shizuoka

Located in the town of Sado, Shizuoka Prefecture, Eight Horses Temple Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the wind god Inazuma no Kami, as well as other deities such as Inari Okami and Shimenawa-tai no Kami. The shrine's name refers to its association with the eight mythical horses said to have appeared in the area during the reign of Emperor Ojin. Visitors can admire the shrine's distinctive vermilion gate and explore the surrounding park, which features several historic buildings and a museum showcasing local history and culture.

楠神社

楠神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Fujieda, Shuzenji's sister shrine to the famous Shuzenji Temple, Nariokuni no okami (the eight-headed god) is enshrined at 楠神社. The shrine was built in 1653 during the Edo period, during which time it became a popular destination for pilgrims seeking good luck and prosperity.楠神社 is also known as 'the shrine of the Japanese cedar tree,' which is said to have been planted by the deity's own hand.

千勝神社

千勝神社

Shizuoka

Located in the mountains of Shizuoka, Chūshin Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Ōkami, known as the 'Great God.' The shrine's history dates back to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) and has been rebuilt multiple times due to its remote location. Its main hall, designed in a traditional Heian-style architectural form, features an impressive wooden structure with an intricately carved roof.

宝殿神社

宝殿神社

Shizuoka

The Treasure Hall Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Fujieda, Shizuoka Prefecture. Dedicated to the deity of prosperity and good fortune, the shrine was established in 1867 during the Meiji period as a memorial for the founder's daughter. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles with a unique blend of Shachihoko (water buffalo) and Torii gates. Visitors can admire the tranquil gardens and learn about the history of the shrine through exhibits featuring Shinto artifacts and historical documents.

神明神社

神明神社

Shizuoka

The Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya, Japan is dedicated to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. According to Shinto mythology, Amaterasu was forced into hiding by her sister and then recovered with the help of her son Susanoo. This story may have influenced the construction of many Japanese shrines, including the Atsuta Shrine.

雨櫻神社

雨櫻神社

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, Rain Cherry Shrine is a serene Shinto oasis nestled among lush greenery. Dedicated to the kami of rain and fertility, the shrine's name reflects its importance as a water source and agricultural hub. The shrine's architecture blends traditional Japanese design with natural elements, reflecting its harmony with the surrounding environment.

大頭龍神社

大頭龍神社

Shizuoka

大頭龍神社, located in the mountainous region of Shizuoka Prefecture, is a small yet serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Ryujin, the Dragon God. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with a traditional wooden torii gate and a simple stone structure housing the kami. According to local legend, the shrine's name '大頭龍神社' translates to 'Great Headed Dragon Shrine', possibly referring to a powerful dragon spirit revered by the local inhabitants.

小高神社

小高神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Okabe, Shizuoka Prefecture, Kōgami Shrine is dedicated to the kami of the mountain and forest, revered by locals as a guardian deity. The shrine's design reflects its humble origins, with a simple gate and wooden torii standing sentinel over a tranquil courtyard.

一色神社

一色神社

Shizuoka

One-color Shrine, located in the Fuji Five Lakes region of Shizuoka Prefecture, is dedicated to the kami Enmei, revered as the god of prosperity and long life. The shrine's name reflects its unique architectural style, featuring a single-colored torii gate, which is said to symbolize the harmony between heaven and earth. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji from the surrounding hills while exploring the shrine's tranquil grounds.

八幡宮

八幡宮

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Fujiyoshida, Shizuoka Prefecture, Eight Horses Temple (Hachimangu) is one of Japan's most famous and historic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the god Hachiman, patron deity of warriors, it was built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine's name refers to its eight stone tortoise-shaped pillars, said to be symbols of good luck and protection. Over time, the shrine has become a significant cultural icon in Japan, attracting millions of visitors each year.

平川神社

平川神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Gamō, Shizuoka Prefecture, Planawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Koshinomiya, but primarily associated with the Shinto god of fire and the forge, Kaze-no-Mitama-gami. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Heian-period style, with a wooden main hall and veranda, surrounded by a tranquil forested area.

八王子神社

八王子神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Eight Kings Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of wealth and prosperity, Futsunoo Okami, as well as other deities such as Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall covered in red tile roofs, while its grounds feature a natural beauty, including lush forests and winding streams. This unique blend of natural scenery and architectural craftsmanship makes Eight Kings Shrine a must-visit destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture.

長間神社

長間神社

Shizuoka

長間神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture. It is known as one of Japan's oldest shrines, with a history dating back to the 8th century. The shrine is dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Sakaki no Kami, and is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional architecture. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

大宮八幡宮

大宮八幡宮

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hadano, Shizuoka Prefecture, Ōmiya-hachiman-ja is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman Okami, the kami of war and protection. The shrine was founded during the Nara period (c. 710 CE) by Emperor Mototsugu, who prayed for his son's safe return from battle. Today, visitors can experience the shrine's traditional architecture and participate in the annual Hachiman Matsuri festival, which honors the patron deity of Japan's samurai class.

津島神社

津島神社

Shizuoka

Tsushima Shrine, located in the town of Kikugawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest and most historic Shinto shrines, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). Dedicated to the sea god, Inari, it is renowned for its beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and sacred tsukubai water basin. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and rich history of this ancient shrine.

若宮神社

若宮神社

Shizuoka

Located in the town of Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Ifuku-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the 8th century. It was originally built as a votive temple during the Nara period and has been destroyed by fire on two occasions. The current building was rebuilt in 1706 during the Edo period. Ifuku-ji Temple is famous for its beautiful garden, which features a large pond and several walking paths. Visitors can also see a impressive stone statue of the Buddha and a collection of Buddhist artifacts.

波津麻神社

波津麻神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture,波津麻神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Matsushima, revered as the god of the sea and protector of fishermen. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Edo-era (1603-1867) style design featuring a vermilion torii gate and a thatched roof. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a sacred spring and a forested area, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.

八幡神社

八幡神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hakone, Shizuoka Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is one of Japan's most famous and historic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the deity of fortune, prosperity, and blessings, the shrine is surrounded by a beautiful forest and features a unique octagonal torii gate, which is said to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.