Japanese shrines

天照皇太神宮

天照皇太神宮

Niigata

Located in Niigata Prefecture, Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of learning, literature, and culture, Sugawara no Michizane. As a symbol of education and intellectual pursuits, the shrine attracts scholars, students, and book lovers from all over Japan.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Niigata

Inzai Shrine, located in the city of Shiojiri in the prefecture of Niigata, is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with a history dating back to the 7th century. Dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice, prosperity, and industry, this Shinto shrine is renowned for its vibrant festivals and unique architectural style. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional buildings, including the iconic torii gate.

石動神社

石動神社

Niigata

The Jodai-ji Shrine, located in the Niigata prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a rectangular entrance hall surrounded by wooden pillars. Inside the shrine, visitors can admire the intricately carved wooden torii gate and the tranquil garden featuring native plants.

八幡宮

八幡宮

Niigata

Located in the city of Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Fushimi Inari, known as the god of rice, prosperity, and industry. The shrine's unique eight-horseshoe shape is said to symbolize good luck and protection. With its simple yet elegant architecture, the shrine has been an important landmark in the region for centuries. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and enjoy traditional Shinto rituals.

神明社

神明社

Niigata

Located in the heart of Niigata Prefecture, Godai Shrine is dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's history dates back to the 17th century, during the Edo period. As a local Shinto shrine, it has maintained its traditional architecture and practices, which are still followed today.

神明神社

神明神社

Niigata

Godaiyama Shrine, located in the city of Niigata, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's name, Godaiyama, translates to 'Five-Story Mountain Shrine.' With its striking architecture and serene atmosphere, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

川原神社

川原神社

Niigata

Located in the town of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, is not correct, however, it's close to Kanazawa city and the nearby prefecture of Niigata. The origin of the name 'Kawara' means 'pond' or 'lake'. Founded in the 8th century, Kawaragahara Shrine honors the local deities believed to have protected the area from invading armies. The shrine is a notable example of a traditional Japanese garden with a large pond at its center.

石動神社

石動神社

Niigata

Stone Gate Shrine, located in Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity, Hachiman Okami, a powerful kami associated with war and protection. The shrine's name reflects its distinctive stone gate structure, built during the Kamakura period (1192-1333). As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it showcases traditional architecture and cultural significance.

住吉神社

住吉神社

Niigata

住吉神社は、神奈川県の神宮寺から移され、1868年に現在の新潟県に設立された神社です。東日本大震災が起きた1973年には、東海地方を中心とする福祉の神である福神（福田大神）を配慮し、それと共に住吉神社で祈りました。現在は、神奈川県で発生した2011年の太平洋Earthquakeから日本に帰ってきた神田大神（海軍神）も一緒に祈られています。 神宮寺からの移植が完成したあとに、当時新潟県の神社として最も初めに設立されたものである住吉神社となりました。東日本大震災後の福神の再配慮は、神宮寺から来る神を再び安置したという考えが根底にあると思われます。 現在は、東日本大震災で日本人に初めて受け取った核被害者による健康診断を受けたものを除くすべての国籍の人々が参拝できます。 住吉神社では、毎年1月12日、2月3日、5月3日、7月6日、9月13日には、その日に同じ日付の日に開催される特別な式典があります。東日本大震災後の福神を再配慮した際にも、これらの式典は続いています。 この神社では、一般的に、子どもの生まれの男性が先に参拝し、次に母親や女性の家族、そして最後に夫や男の子が順番に入るというルールがあります。ただし、そのようなルールには異議を唱えられる場合もあります。 この神社は、東日本大震災後の福神を再配慮した際にも続いています。2018年に始まった新しい式典では、「世界の平和」や「東日本大震災への復興」といったテーマが取り上げられました。 住吉神社は、子どもの生まれの男性から始めて、その次に母親や女性の家族、そして最後に夫や男の子が順番に入ると言うルールがあります。ただし、規則はすべて同じでなく、異議を唱える場合もあります。 この神社は、東日本大震災後の福神を再配慮した際にも続いています。

神明宮

神明宮

Niigata

Located in the heart of Niigata Prefecture, Godaikannon Temple is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess. As one of Japan's most ancient shrines, it dates back to the Edo period and boasts a unique architectural style that reflects its rich history.

三所神社

三所神社

Niigata

Located in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture, San no Soko Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Three Saints (San no Soko), believed to have guided Japanese fishermen back to shore after being shipwrecked. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a wooden torii gate and a large main hall. Locals often visit for good fortune and blessings for safe navigation.

神明宮(脇子八幡宮境内社)

神明宮(脇子八幡宮境内社)

Niigata

Godaiji Shrine, located in the Sakanate district of Joetsu City, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Kannon, also known as Benzaiten in Japanese folklore. The shrine complex includes the main shrine and several smaller shrines, each dedicated to different aspects of the Benzaiten deity. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine's gardens, which feature a variety of plants and trees native to the Niigata region. While Godaiji Shrine is not as well-known as some other Shinto shrines in Japan, it offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.

古峯神社

古峯神社

Niigata

Located in the scenic Sado Island, Noto Peninsula, and the Japanese Alps foothills of Niigata Prefecture, the ancient Kumotoge Shrine (Kumoutoge Jinja) is one of Japan's oldest shrines. Dedicated to Inari, Okami, and Shinto kami associated with the region, the shrine is revered for its unique architectural style and strong ties to local folklore. Visitors can explore the sacred forest, take in breathtaking views of Lake Kamokawa, or participate in traditional festivals honoring Kumoutoge's patron deities.

羽黒神社

羽黒神社

Niigata

Located in the prefecture of Niigata, Haku Black Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the forest and the sea. The shrine is situated near the coast and is surrounded by lush greenery, reflecting its connection to the natural world. With a history dating back to the Heian period, this shrine has been a place of worship for locals seeking blessings and protection from the gods.

藤基神社

藤基神社

Niigata

藤基神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture, dedicated to Fujikihime no Kami, the kami of pine trees and fertility. The shrine is situated near the town of Nagaoka, where the river Nagara flows into the Sea of Japan. The area's natural beauty and rich history have made it a popular destination for hikers and those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

十二所神社

十二所神社

Niigata

The Twelve Shrines of Niigata, also known as Jūsei-jinja, is a collection of twelve Shinto shrines located in the Niigata Prefecture of Japan's Hokuriku region. The twelve shrines are dedicated to various kami and are believed to be the original sites where the deities were enshrined. Visitors can explore each shrine and experience unique local customs and traditions.

母衣王神社

母衣王神社

Niigata

Mother-yoko-hime-no-kami-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Mother Yokai Hime, a revered kami from the Nagaoka region in Niigata Prefecture. This shrine showcases traditional Japanese architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery, reflecting its connection with nature. As one of the oldest shrines in the region, it has been an integral part of local culture for centuries.

十二宮社

十二宮社

Niigata

The Twelve Shrine (Jūni-kyō) is a Shinto complex located in Niigata Prefecture, dedicated to the twelve kami of the Japanese pantheon who govern the twelve months of the year and the twelve zodiac animals. As one of Japan's most famous shrines, it attracts visitors from all over the world. The shrine's architecture is characterized by its elegant wooden structures and beautiful gardens, which reflect the harmony between nature and humanity.

天王宮

天王宮

Niigata

Tenno-no-miya Shrine in Niigata Prefecture is dedicated to the Enma-sama, the god of the underworld and ruler of the dead. This shrine is famous for its beautiful and historic architecture, with a wooden torii gate that dates back to the Edo period. The shrine also features a unique three-tiered pagoda, which is said to be one of the oldest in Japan.

薬師堂

薬師堂

Niigata

藥師堂, a Shinto shrine located in Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the deity of medicine and healing, Fukurokuju. The shrine's history dates back to the Edo period, during which it was known as Tsuruoka-dera. It was later moved to its current location in 1883. The shrine is famous for its beautiful garden, with over 1,000 trees including cherry blossoms, peonies, and maples.

瑞玉神社

瑞玉神社

Niigata

Located in the city of Hakusan, Niigata Prefecture, Ryūgaku-jinsha Shrine is dedicated to Ryūgaku, a kami believed to protect fishermen and boat owners. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with traditional shinden-zukuri style buildings and a torii gate adorned with nautical symbols. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum to learn more about local legends and maritime history.

梨子崎神社

梨子崎神社

Niigata

Ryuzuizaki Shrine, located in the beautiful coastal town of Yubari in Hokkaido, is dedicated to Ryujin and Benzaiten, the dragon god and goddess of beauty and wisdom. The shrine's architectural style reflects its regional influences, with a mix of Japanese and Ainu designs. According to local legend, the shrine was built on the site where a local fisherman prayed for protection from sea monsters. Over time, the shrine has become an important cultural hub, hosting various festivals throughout the year, including the Yubari Cherry Blossom Festival.

秋葉神社

秋葉神社

Niigata

Akiba no Kane Shrine, located in the Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Inari Okami, who is revered as the patron of fertility, prosperity, and good harvests. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance during the Edo period, with a distinctive roofless torii gate that dates back to 1885. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several smaller shrines and a sacred forest.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Niigata

Located in the city of Agematsu, Niigata Prefecture,諏訪神社 (Visnu Shrine) is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine is dedicated to Visnu, a major deity in Shintoism, and is also famous for its association with the mythical sea goddess, Ōtohime. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including the main hall and torii gate, as well as participate in rituals and ceremonies held throughout the year, such as the annual Tanabata festival.