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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Denomination

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838 shrines

琴毘羅社

Shimane

Located in the heart of Shikoku, Katsurahime no Mori Shrine is dedicated to the kami of music and poetry. Built in 1955, it showcases a unique blend of traditional Shinto architecture and modern design elements. The shrine's name, Katsurahime, translates to 'The Princess of the Valley,' reflecting its serene atmosphere and natural surroundings.

中須稲生神社

Shimane

Located in the Yamaguchi Plain of western Japan, the middle of which is a vast swamp called Mutsu, Middle Suwashi Shrine was originally built to ward off evil spirits from the area. It has a long history dating back to the Nara period and is said to have been established by a local deity known as the 'gami' associated with rice cultivation. Over time, it has gained the reverence of local residents for its ability to bring good fortune to those visiting or living in the surrounding community. Today, Middle Suwashi Shrine remains an important site for the local population and attracts visitors seeking blessings from the kami.

麦田八幡神社

Shimane

McIdaira Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Iwami, Shimane Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of the samurai class, who was enshrined here during the Heian period. The shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional architecture make it a popular tourist destination, particularly during the annual Matsuri festival in June.

日吉神社

Shimane

Located in the city of Matsue, Dayotsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, Okudanmyo-jin (also known as Amaterasu). Dedicated to protecting the crops and livestock of the region, the shrine has been an important cultural and spiritual center for the local community. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of the Nara period, with a unique torii gate that stands out from other shrines in the area.

黄幡神社

Shimane

Located in the town of Hamauzu, Shimane Prefecture, 黄幡神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Kami of the Yellow Cloth, which refers to a mythical yellow cloth said to have been worn by the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune during the Genpei War. The shrine is famous for its impressive wooden torii gate and beautiful gardens. While the origins of the shrine are unclear, it is believed to date back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest shrines in Shimane Prefecture.

石屋神社

Shimane

Located in the city of Masuda, Shimane Prefecture, Stone Warehouse Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a simple thatched-roof hut, now replaced by a more traditional torii gate. Visitors can walk through the main hall to view ancient artifacts and experience a serene atmosphere.

山王神社

Shimane

Located in the scenic prefecture of Shimane, Yamato no Okami Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary that honors the Shitennō-ji (Ten Ten-no-ji), a legendary divine warrior from Japanese mythology. The shrine's name, which translates to 'Mountain King God Shrine,' reflects its connection to the region's mythological history. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture and pay respects to the kami enshrined, including Yamato no Okami, the mountain king deity.

黄幡神社

Shimane

Kagura, a form of Shinto theater and music, is an integral part of Yellow Pine Shrine's (Hōhadshi no Michi) rituals and ceremonies. The shrine is dedicated to the kami of the yellow pine tree, believed to possess spiritual powers that can ward off evil spirits and misfortune. Visitors can experience the mystical atmosphere of Kagura performances during special events and festivals held throughout the year.

宇那木神社

Shimane

Utsunomiya-oka Shrine in Shimane Prefecture is dedicated to the kami of the forest, Utsunomiya-oka. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design with a tiled roof and wooden structures. The shrine complex includes several buildings, including a main hall, a shrine building, and a museum. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

胡子神社

Shimane

Located in the scenic town of Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Hu-ji Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the enshrined deity Inari Okami, patron deity of merchants and farmers. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major hub for trade and commerce during the Heian period. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautifully maintained grounds, which include traditional Japanese gardens and a tranquil pond.

権五郎神社

Shimane

Located in the beautiful landscape of Shikoku, Ōtani Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Ōtani Hachiman, who is revered as a patron deity of scholars and intellectuals. The shrine's architecture reflects its importance as a center for learning and culture during the Heian period. Visitors can explore the adjacent Ōtani Museum to learn more about the history of education in Japan.

大國神社

Shimane

Daigokujinsha, located in the Shimane Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the national deity of Japan, Ōkami. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with its imposing wooden structure and curved roofs. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a sacred lake and walking trails through ancient cedar trees.

友廣神社

Shimane

Located in the city of Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, Ube Goda Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to Ube no Okami, a powerful storm god and protector of fishermen. The shrine's main hall is decorated with traditional Japanese architecture and features a distinctive tiled roof. While its exact founding date is unknown, the shrine is believed to have been established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE).

細野神社

Shimane

Located in the heart of Shimane Prefecture, 細野神社 is a tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and rice fields. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a key stopping point for travelers along the ancient road known as the San'yō-dō. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine, adorned with vibrant autumn foliage during the fall season.

三輪明神

Shimane

Three-Round Shrine is a Shinto shrine in the town of Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture, dedicated to the god of the three round stones at its site. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, and is said to be the ancestral home of the Yasugi family, who were once daimyos of the region. According to legend, the shrine was originally a sacred grove where the god was worshipped, and the three round stones remain as an offering.

安神社

Shimane

Anshinsha, located in Shimane Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection of travelers and sailors. The shrine's primary deity is Anshin, also known as 'the god of medicine' or 'the god of the soul'. Although traditionally associated with medical healing, Anshin is also revered for his power to ward off evil spirits and misfortune. Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings at the shrine's torii gate, which faces outwards to ensure the safety and protection of those seeking assistance. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a protector of travelers, with sturdy buildings designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.

瀬田八幡宮

Shimane

Located in the city of Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, Seida Hachiman-gū is a renowned Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of the samurai class. Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this historic temple complex boasts an impressive blend of traditional Japanese architecture and stunning views of Lake Shinji. Visitors can explore the serene gardens, tranquil forest, and the shrine's iconic five-story pagoda. In addition to its historical significance, Seida Hachiman-gū is also a popular destination for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation and connection with nature.

熊野神社

Shimane

Nagato Shrine, located in the Seto Inland Sea region of Japan's Honshu island, is an important Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo no Mikoto. It is said that Susanoo brought fire from heaven and used it to burn away evil spirits. The shrine's main temple was built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and features a unique Sanjusangendo-style roof, with 1,000 giant pillars supporting its structure.

艮神社

Shimane

Eshima-jinsha is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Iwami, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. Dedicated to Inari Okami, the shrine is famous for its beautiful architecture and historic significance as the final resting place of the great poet and painter Sōgyō Ono. The shrine's main hall, Toganeyado, features a unique wooden structure built in 1862, showcasing traditional Edo-period design. Visitors can admire the shrine's stunning gardens, which include a large tree believed to be over 800 years old.

八幡神社

Shimane

Located in the city of Matsue in Shimane Prefecture, Eight Horses Shrine is one of the most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the god of fortune and prosperity, Fujin. Dedicated to the mythical storm god and god of wind, the shrine complex includes a five-story pagoda and a grand torii gate. It is said that the shrine was established in 744 AD by Prince Nagaya no Chihiro, who was tasked with creating a shrine to honor the gods after his own death.

糸碕神社

Shimane

Goshikibu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Yubari, Shimane Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami Goshikibu, it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. The shrine complex features several buildings, including a main hall, a torii gate, and a few smaller shrines. Visitors can experience the tranquility of Japanese gardens, explore ancient structures, and connect with nature.

三種神社

Shimane

The Sanbutsu-jinja Shrine is one of Japan's most ancient and revered Shinto shrines, located in the town of Masuda in Shimane Prefecture. Built in 718 AD during the Nara period, it enshrines three deities: Susanoo, Amaterasu, and Fujin - also known as Inazuma - who are believed to represent the sun god, the moon goddess, and the wind god respectively. The shrine's architecture is a testament to its rich history, with many traditional wooden structures still standing today.

高根八幡神社

Shimane

High root eight span god shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of good luck and prosperity in High Root Village, located on the northern coast of Yamaguchi Bay. The shrine is famous for its well-preserved thatched-roof building and beautiful gardens.

八坂神社

Shimane

Located in the heart of Shimane Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Inari, the Shinto deity of fertility and rice harvests. The shrine's unique architecture and serene surroundings make it an attractive destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from modern life. As one of the most famous shrines in Japan, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the country's rich cultural heritage.