Japanese shrines

鬼鎮神社

鬼鎮神社

Gunma

Located in the Gunma prefecture, 鬀鎮神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection of villages and towns from evil spirits. The shrine's name '鬼鎮' translates to 'ghost town' or 'village with a protective spirit', emphasizing its role in safeguarding local communities.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Gunma

諏訪神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Gunma Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine is famous for its historic significance and connections to Japanese mythology. According to legend, the shrine was founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), when the kami of the region was believed to have possessed the power to grant fertility to the land and its inhabitants. Today, the shrine remains a significant cultural and historical landmark in Japan, attracting visitors from all over the world.

金刀比羅宮

金刀比羅宮

Gunma

Gold Sword Shrine, located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, is dedicated to Tamashii, the Shinto god of swords and war. As a site associated with the legendary Minamoto no Yoshitsune, it is said that the god granted Yoshitsune the power to vanquish his enemies. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a military stronghold, featuring a unique gold-sleeved gate and a temple dedicated to the god of war. Visitors can see the shrine's impressive collection of swords and armor on display.

猪狩神社

猪狩神社

Gunma

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, 猪狩神社 is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari Okami. As one of Japan's oldest and most sacred shrines, it has been an integral part of local traditions for centuries. The shrine's rustic architecture, adorned with vibrant vermilion torii gates, reflects its rural charm. Visitors can explore the serene grounds, offering prayers and gratitude to Inari Okami, the patron deity of agriculture, industry, and fertility.

福寿神社

福寿神社

Gunma

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Fuku Shūjinsha Shrine is a serene oasis nestled amidst lush greenery. The shrine is dedicated to the spirit of longevity and good fortune, as reflected in its name 'Fuku', which means 'abundance' or 'prosperity'. Its tranquil atmosphere and natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and spiritual rejuvenation.

瀧石神社

瀧石神社

Gunma

Located in the Gunma prefecture, Tsukiyosegami Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and agriculture, believed to be the kami of a local rice paddy. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles, with a main hall built using local wood and tiled roofs. According to legend, the shrine was founded in 1843 by the local daimyo (feudal lord) Tsukiyose. A unique feature of the shrine is its association with the local rice harvest festival, held annually on July 15th.

柊木神社

柊木神社

Gunma

Located in the town of Kusudoi, Gunma Prefecture, Shirakami-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection and fertility of the forest. The shrine's name translates to 'White Pine Shrine' due to its association with the white pine tree, a symbol of longevity and good fortune. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine's forest grounds, featuring scenic walking trails and historic stone lanterns.

姥神社

姥神社

Gunma

Located in the scenic countryside of Gunma Prefecture, Hie Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Hie, a powerful kami revered for her role as a protector and guardian of agriculture, fertility, and prosperity. As one of Japan's most prominent shrines, Hie Shrine has been an important center of Shinto worship since its founding in 736 CE. The shrine's architecture reflects its rich history, with a distinctive five-story pagoda and numerous ornate torii gates. Visitors can explore the shrine's many peaceful gardens and traditional structures, including the iconic haiden (main hall) and hon-do (main shrine).

三社神社

三社神社

Gunma

Three Deities Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the three deities Hachiman, Okuninushi, and Susanoo. Located in Gunma Prefecture, it is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE). The shrine complex features traditional architecture and is known for its beautiful gardens and historic significance.

武士神社

武士神社

Gunma

Located in the Gunma Prefecture, the Bushi Jinsha Shrine is dedicated to the enshrined deity, Kusunoki Masashige. A legendary warrior from the Kamakura period, Kusunoki is revered for his bravery and loyalty. The shrine's architecture reflects its connection to Japan's samurai heritage, with a traditional design featuring a rectangular main hall and a smaller rear hall. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a tranquil garden and a memorial hall dedicated to the life and legacy of Kusunoki Masashige.

勝山神社

勝山神社

Gunma

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Gunma, the Katase-yama Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto kami of Mt. Katase. This shrine is known for its unique architectural style, with a large torii gate that stands at over 15 meters tall, making it one of the tallest in Japan. The shrine's design is inspired by the traditional Heian period architecture and features a complex network of stone pathways and gates.

鈴宮神社

鈴宮神社

Gunma

Tsuzuki-miya Shrine, located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of musical instruments and music. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'Bell Temple,' reflecting its association with sound and harmony. With its serene atmosphere and historic architecture, Tsuzuki-miya Shrine offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

貴船神社(大間々町)

貴船神社(大間々町)

Gunma

Located in the town of Ōinaka in Gunma Prefecture, the Ōinaka Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea and fishing, Ota no Kami. The shrine's architecture reflects its location on the coast, with a simple yet elegant design that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a beautiful garden and a tranquil pond.

十二山神社

十二山神社

Gunma

Tenju-isan Shrine, located in the Ogasawara Islands or on the Japanese mainland depending on the source but most commonly associated with the Gunma prefecture is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the 12 Shitennō, a group of twelve deities who are believed to be the original heavenly warriors. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical ties to the Edo period and features a mix of traditional and modern designs.

貴船神社 鳥居

貴船神社 鳥居

Gunma

Located in the city of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, Hie Shrine is one of Japan's most famous and historic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to Hie, the deity of rivers and springs, the shrine is situated near the River Tone and offers a tranquil escape from the city. The shrine complex features stunning architecture, including the iconic Kaminarimon gate and the majestic Torii gate, which are adorned with colorful torii gates and lanterns. Visitors can experience the shrine's rich cultural heritage by attending one of its many festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Hie Matsuri festival.

神明神社

神明神社

Gunma

The Gunma Shrine of God's Light is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Japan, dedicated to the worship of the kami of light and fertility. The shrine is known for its serene natural surroundings and traditional architecture, which reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. With a history dating back to the Edo period, the Gunma Shrine has become an important pilgrimage site for those seeking blessings and protection.

駒形神社

駒形神社

Gunma

Located in the town of Tateyama, Gunma Prefecture, Karōmatsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami and the wind god Bishamonten. The shrine's name roughly translates to ' Horse-Headed God Temple.' Karōmatsu is believed to be a former residence of a samurai who was revered for his bravery during the Edo period. Visitors can see a statue of the horse-headed god, Kusunokami, carved from cedar wood.

弁才天宮

弁才天宮

Gunma

Located in the city of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, Benkei-in is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the legendary hero Benkei and the bodhisattva Kannon. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style with a combination of tiled roofs and wooden pillars. According to legend, Benkei, a skilled samurai, donated his armor to create a temple for the local people, and it is believed that he still resides here.

首塚八幡宮

首塚八幡宮

Gunma

Located in the town of Annaka, Gunma Prefecture, Shuuji-tsuji Hachiman-gu is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of samurai. The shrine is situated on the site where the legendary General Minamoto no Yoshitsune defeated the forces of the Kamakura shogunate in 1183 during the Genpei War. Visitors can explore the shrine's historic torii gate, which dates back to the Edo period, and participate in traditional festivals such as the Hachiman Matsuri, held annually on November 14th.

胴塚稲荷

胴塚稲荷

Gunma

Located in the town of Yaita, Gunma Prefecture, Dōtaku-sha Inari Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style, with a large torii gate and a complex of shrines dedicated to various kami, including those associated with agriculture and fertility.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Gunma

Located in the city of Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, Ōtori-jinsha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Ōtori-no-kami, a kami associated with good fortune, prosperity, and protection. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Japanese shrines, with a tiled roof and a vermilion torii gate. Visitors can admire the shrine's peaceful gardens and take a stroll along the nearby Takase River.

春日神社

春日神社

Gunma

春日神社は、東日本大震災を経て復興した後、2012年に再オープンしました。神社の正面には「みなとり」が書かれています。これは「人と神とのつながり」を表しています。この言葉は、神社で訪れる人々や神に捧げるものに大切な概念です。 春日神社は、天皇を奉祀する神社であり、神宮の行事などでも関わっています。神社内には、東日本大震災に対して祈念を捧げるための祈念柱が置かれています。

飯玉神社

飯玉神社

Gunma

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Shuyamajinsha is a small but revered Shinto shrine that has been dedicated to the worship of Shimo no Ōkami, a kami associated with agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Heian period style, with a wooden torii gate and a tranquil garden that provides a peaceful oasis in the midst of nature.

家隆神社

家隆神社

Gunma

Located in the city of Ōsa, Gunma Prefecture, House of Light Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine that has been an important center of worship for locals since its founding in 1889. The shrine is dedicated to the kami Ōi no Tsurugi-gami, which translates to 'God of the Bright Sword.' This deity was revered as a protector of the local community and is often invoked by people seeking good fortune and prosperity. Visitors can still see the iconic sword-shaped gate that marks the entrance to the shrine grounds.