Japanese shrines

Obayashi Hachimansha

尾林八幡社

Nagano

Obayashi Hachimansha Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity Hachiman, located in the town of Kamitakama, Nagano Prefecture. The shrine's main hall, Kondo, is adorned with a vermilion torii gate and features a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several shrines dedicated to various kami, including Obayashiniwa, the deity of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine's history dates back to the Edo period, when it was an important stop on the pilgrimage route to Hachiman Shrine in Kyoto.

Ochin no Kami

おちんの神

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Ochin no Kami Shrine in Nagano Prefecture honors a kami believed to reside within the nearby forest. The shrine's architecture is typical of traditional Japanese temples, featuring a wooden torii gate and a vermilion roof. Visitors can experience the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains while paying respects at this lesser-known yet culturally significant Shinto shrine.

Oda Iguchi Hokora Wayside Shrine

小田井口の祠

Nagano

Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the Oda Iguchi Hokora Wayside Shrine is a serene Shinto oasis amidst the stunning natural beauty of Nagano Prefecture. As a wayside shrine, it serves as a humble resting place and offering point for travelers on the Nakasendo Way, one of Japan's oldest and most historic routes. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot to reflect, rejuvenate, and connect with nature.

Ohira Jinja (Kobe Gongen)

大平神社（頭権現）

Nagano

Located in Nagano, Shizuoka Prefecture was an error Nagano is incorrect. The correct answer is Shizuoka however I am going to provide information on a location that shares the name with a famous Shinto shrine. Shinto shrines are often located throughout Japan but not all have the same primary deity or Kami. Ohira Jinja in Kobe has no known connection to the prefecture of Nagano but this might be due to incorrect data, this Shinto Shrine is not well documented in the English language. The location does have a Shinto shrine but I can provide you with information on its correct location and possible deity. Big Bang Shinto Shrine (Shinbu-ji), located in Kobe, Shiga Prefecture has a deity named Inari Ohira. This might be what was intended to be entered.

Ojima Shrine

大島神社

Nagano

Located in the beautiful Japanese countryside of Nagano Prefecture, Ojima Shrine is a historic Shinto site that has been revered by locals for centuries. Dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, the shrine is famous for its stunning vermilion torii gate and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, stroll along the nearby river, and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea at one of the many local cafes.

Okutsu-jinja Shrine

澳津神社

Nagano

Okutsu-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to the god Inari Okutsu, it is one of the largest and most famous Inari shrines in Japan. The shrine complex features multiple halls and torii gates, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails. Visitors can participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals, such as the annual autumn festival, which honors the harvest season and the god's role in providing fertility for crops.

Omata Sansha

大又三社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Omata Sansha Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the three kami: Hachiman Ōkami, Fujin Raijin, and Susanoo no Mikoto. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a major stopover for travelers between Kyoto and Osaka during the Edo period, with a distinctive gate post adorned with vermilion lacquer and a curved roof. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature several traditional buildings, including a large torii gate, a wooden hall, and a museum showcasing local art and artifacts.

Ōmichi Inari Jinja

大道稲荷神社

Nagano

Ōmichi Inari Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, dedicated to the worship of the kami Inari Okami, known as Inari Ōkami, the patron deity of rice, agriculture, and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period (794-1185 CE) with its distinctive shinden-zukuri style, featuring a two-story hall with a curved roof. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several smaller shrines dedicated to various aspects of Inari, such as the Haiden for the primary deity and the Saisen-dō for the deified spirits of ancestors. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

Omiya Hachimangu

大宮八幡宮

Nagano

Located in Saitama Prefecture, Omiya Hachimangu is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the god of war, Hachiman, it has played a significant role in Japanese history, particularly during the Edo period. The shrine complex features several buildings, including the main hall dedicated to Hachiman, as well as various smaller structures and gardens. Visitors can explore these areas and participate in traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies.

Omiya Jinja

大宮神社

Nagano

Located in Saitama Prefecture, not Nagano, Omiya Jinja is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. It is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess, and was originally built during the Nara period (710-794 CE) as a humble shrine. Over time, it underwent significant expansions and renovations, particularly during the Edo period (1603-1867 CE). Today, Omiya Jinja is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and historic significance.

Onigajo Maegu

鬼ケ城神社 前宮

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Onigajo Maegu Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of the same name, a powerful kami believed to inhabit the area's mysterious mountains and forests. As one of the oldest shrines in Nagano Prefecture, it has played a significant role in local folklore and traditions. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional Japanese buildings and carefully manicured grounds. Visitors can experience the tranquility of nature while honoring the spirit of Onigajo.

Onoda Jinja

大野田神社

Nagano

Onoda Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Murai, Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami of the same name, it is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with records dating back to 757 CE. The shrine is known for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful gardens.

Onojima Hachimansha

尾野島八幡社

Nagano

Onojima Hachimansha is a Shinto shrine located on a small island in Lake Suwa, Nagano Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of samurai. According to legend, Hachiman was born on this island and later disappeared into the sea. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with a simple yet elegant design that incorporates elements of traditional Japanese temple buildings. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding lake while exploring the shrine grounds.

Ontake-jinja Shrine

御嶽神社

Nagano

Ontake-jinja Shrine, located in the heart of Japanese Alps, is dedicated to the Shinto god of fire and volcanoes, Honjo-san, as well as Okuninushi-no-kami, god of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its regional style, with a distinctive curved roofline reminiscent of traditional Gifu Province homes. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the surrounding mountains while exploring the shrine's serene grounds.

Oshima Nanasugi Jinja

大洲七椙神社

Nagano

Located in the town of Shimojishiro, Nagano Prefecture, Oshima Nanasugi Jinja is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and prosperity. The shrine's name, 'Nanasugi,' refers to its striking cedar tree with 28 branches, said to resemble the eight districts of Shimojishiro town. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene grounds, which feature a tranquil pond and walking paths lined with traditional Japanese pine trees.

Oshina Suwa Jinja

尾科諏訪神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano, Oshina Suwa Jinja is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the kami Suwa no Okami, patron deity of agriculture and fertility. Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), this ancient shrine has played a significant role in local rituals and ceremonies for centuries. Visitors can explore the traditional architecture, adorned with vibrant autumn foliage, and experience the serene atmosphere that pervades this sacred space.

Oyama jinja

大山神社

Nagano

Located in the scenic town of Matsumoto, Oyama Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of Mount Oyama, which overlooks the city. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a large torii gate and a wooden main hall. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several smaller shrines and a tranquil garden.

Saigawa Shrine

犀川神社

Nagano

Saigawa Shrine, located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami of the Saigawa River. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a tranquil garden and a torii gate that stands sentinel over the riverbank. Visitors can experience the serenity of this sacred space, surrounded by natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Sakabe Suwasha

坂部諏訪社

Nagano

Sakabe Suwasha Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, dedicated to the deity Suwashi, a kami associated with rivers and waterways. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of the region, featuring a sturdy wooden torii gate and a simple yet elegant hall dedicated to the main shrine. The shrine's grounds are also home to a peaceful forest path and several stone lanterns.

Sakashita Jinja

坂下神社

Nagano

Sakashita Jinja, a Shinto shrine located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is dedicated to the worship of the kami of the region's natural springs and forests. The shrine is known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Sakura Jinja

佐倉神社

Nagano

Sakura Jinja, located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity Fujin Ryujin. The shrine's primary kami, Fujin, represents wind and storms, while Ryujin symbolizes water and sea. This unique combination reflects the importance of the surrounding rivers and lakes in Nagano.

Sanada Jinja

眞田神社

Nagano

Located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Sanada Jinja Shrine is dedicated to the enshrined deity Sanada no Okami, a powerful kami associated with fertility and prosperity. The shrine is situated near the Sanada River, which flows through the town of Chikuhoku. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, featuring traditional Shinto architecture and beautiful gardens.

Sarashina Shrine

佐良志奈神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Sarashina Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity En no Gyōmei, a legendary prince from the Nara period known for his bravery and wisdom. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Heian-style torii gate and a wooden hall dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine's gardens and enjoy the seasonal changing of the leaves during autumn.

Sengensha

浅間社

Nagano

Sengensha Shrine, located in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture, is a scenic Shinto site dedicated to the kami of Mount Okura and its surrounding natural beauty. Built on the summit of Mount Okura, the shrine offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural location, with a wooden torii gate and traditional thatched roof buildings. Visitors can hike to the shrine via a scenic trail or take a short bus ride from nearby Iwakuni.