Japanese shrines

早素戔嗚神社

早素戔嗚神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 早素戔嗚神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Sugosasōjin. While not as well-known as other shrines, it has an interesting history and architectural style characteristic of the Edo period. The shrine is nestled among scenic mountains and forests, reflecting its connection with nature. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and explore the surrounding area for hiking and outdoor activities.

白山神社

白山神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, white mountain shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the mountain, as well as other regional kami. The shrine complex features a three-story pagoda and a large vermilion torii gate. It has been an important pilgrimage site since its founding during the Edo period. Visitors can climb the mountain or take a tram to the top for breathtaking views.

會地早雄神社

會地早雄神社

Nagano

会地早雄神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, famous for its unique history and connection to the Yamato period. The shrine's primary enshrined deity is Tamayori-no-Mikoto, a kami associated with good fortune and prosperity.

蚕影神社

蚕影神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 蚕影神社 is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity Inari Okami. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'Spider Shadow Shrine' or 'Shadowy Weaver,' likely referencing the intricate web-like patterns found in spider silk. Inari Okami, the primary kami, is often depicted as a weaver of fate and fortune.

實照神社

實照神社

Nagano

Realzōjinsha, located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Realzō, known for his association with the wind and the sky. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of the region, with a distinctive tiled roof and a large torii gate. The area surrounding the shrine offers beautiful views of the Japanese Alps.

蚕影神社

蚕影神社

Nagano

Tsukumogami-jinja Shrine in Nagano Prefecture is dedicated to the kami of the tsukumogami, spirits born from aged or worn-out objects. The shrine's architecture and traditions reflect its role as a caretaker of these mystical entities. Visitors can explore the intricate woodcarvings and ornate decorations adorning the shrine's structures, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and attract benevolent tsukumogami.

若宮神明宮

若宮神明宮

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano, Ifriya Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto god of rice and fertility. As one of the most famous shrines in Japan, it is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel leading up to the main shrine. Visitors can make offerings and pray for good fortune, prosperity, and protection.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Nagano

Goshiki-dera, also known as Enryakuji, is a renowned Shinto shrine in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture, dedicated to the worship of the deity Takamagahara no Kami. The shrine complex, originally constructed during the Nara period (710-794 CE), boasts a rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can experience the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains while exploring the shrine's tranquil gardens and historic buildings.

早稲田神社

早稲田神社

Nagano

Early Industry Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Agematsu, Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to the deities of rice and industry, it is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan. The shrine's architecture reflects the Edo period style, with a five-story pagoda and an impressive gatehouse.

沢之宮小川神社

沢之宮小川神社

Nagano

Settsu no Miyashino-jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Settsu, Nagano Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the kami of the local river and has been an important center of worship for its community for centuries. Its architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a distinctive torii gate and a large wooden temple building. The shrine is also known for its beautiful gardens and walking trails along the riverbank.

大神社

大神社

Nagano

The Daigū-ji temple in Nagano Prefecture is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Ōno-Imokawa, a local god of fertility and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a main hall and several smaller buildings. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

米峰神社

米峰神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Michino-oka Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of good luck and prosperity, specifically patronizing hikers and travelers. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period, with a traditional torii gate and wooden buildings. Visitors can explore the surrounding forest and trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Nagano

Fushimi Inari Shrine, located in Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the Shinto deity of rice and fertility, Inari Okami, it is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain. The shrine has its roots in the 8th century, during the Nara period, and was originally located near the village of Fushimi. It was later relocated to its current site on Mount Inari in the 15th century. Visitors can hike up the mountain through the torii gates, an experience that is said to bring good luck and prosperity.

郷社八幡神社

郷社八幡神社

Nagano

Kumamoto-ku Shrine, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami and her grandson Susanoo, is located in Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The shrine's main hall, Hondo, dates back to 1684 and features a distinctive red tile roof with gold accents. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

八幡社

八幡社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Eight Horses Temple is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the storm god Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine complex features an impressive five-story pagoda and a tranquil pond surrounded by cherry blossom trees. Its proximity to the Japanese Alps has led to its association with hikers and trekkers visiting the area.

大平氏神

大平氏神

Nagano

Located in the town of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, the Ōpeikatsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Ō-peika, who is said to be a manifestation of the kami of Mount Ōshū. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene grounds, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and experience the tranquility of Japanese nature.

大山祇社

大山祇社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano, Bigakasan Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Susuwatari, a kami believed to watch over food and household management. This serene oasis offers a tranquil escape from bustling city life, surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque forests. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, adorned with natural stone lanterns and beautifully maintained gardens.

津島神社

津島神社

Nagano

Located in the town of Kiso, Nagano Prefecture, Tsushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea and fishing, Inari Okami. The shrine's main hall is decorated with traditional Japanese architecture, including a tiled roof and wooden torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful grounds, which feature several ponds and walking paths. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful autumn foliage.

皇太神社

皇太神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, the Imperial Grand Shrine of Takamagahara in Nagano Prefecture is believed to be one of the original shrines in Japan and a sacred site for Emperor Jinmu, who is said to have descended from heaven on a white deer. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a sacred center during Japan's early mythological period. Today, visitors can experience the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains while honoring the imperial spirits.

白山姫神社

白山姫神社

Nagano

白山姫神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese Alps, specifically in the town of Agematsu, Nagano Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the goddess Himegami, known as the 'Queen of Snow', and is often visited during the winter months for its picturesque scenery and alleged connection to the famous Japanese folktale, 'Yuki-onna' (The Snow Maiden).

弥栄神社

弥栄神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Mitogori Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility, believed to be particularly revered by farmers. The shrine's name, "Mitogori", translates to "mushroom mountain" or "land of abundant harvests", reflecting its association with nature and the cycles of growth.

中越神社

中越神社

Nagano

中越神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the kami of the mountain and the forest. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional wooden buildings and a tranquil garden. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and connect with nature at this picturesque shrine.

桐原牧神社

桐原牧神社

Nagano

Tsurigata-jinsha Shrine, located in the town of Saizen-cho, Nagano Prefecture, is dedicated to Shinto kami Kamaji and the god of the sea. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a wooden torii gate and tiled roof. While not as well-known as some other shrines in Japan, Tsurigata-jinsha has a rich history dating back to the 17th century.

養輝神社

養輝神社

Nagano

Nagawatari Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity, is a historic site located in the heart of the Japanese Alps. As one of the oldest shrines in Nagano Prefecture, it has been a significant cultural and spiritual hub for over 1,000 years. The shrine's architecture reflects its rich history, with traditional buildings and gardens that have been meticulously maintained. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine's surroundings, including lush greenery and stunning mountain views.