Japanese shrines

Suka-jinja Shrine

須賀神社

Saitama

Suka-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Sakura, Saitama Prefecture, and is dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which date back to the Edo period. According to legend, the shrine was built on the site where the god Suka-no-Mikoto, a deity associated with agriculture and fertility, was said to have appeared.

Sumemimano-mikotosha

皇御孫命社

Saitama

Located in the city of Saitama, Sumemimano-mikotosha Shrine is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Jomei's grandson, Nakatomo no Osomi. The shrine's history dates back to the Nara period, and its architecture reflects traditional Japanese design with a distinctive tiled roof. A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, Sumemimano-mikotosha Shrine is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Sumiyoshi Shrine

住吉神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Japan, Sumiyoshi Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in the country, with its main hall dating back to 1926. Dedicated to the sea god Susanoo and his wife Kaguya-hime, this shrine is a significant cultural landmark in Saitama Prefecture. Its unique architecture, reflecting regional styles influenced by Chinese and Japanese traditions, has captivated visitors for centuries.

Sunakubo Inari-Shrine

砂久保稲荷神社

Saitama

Located in the scenic town of Hikiyama, Saitama Prefecture, Sunakubo Inari-Shrine is a sacred site honoring the kami of rice and fertility. The shrine is dedicated to the primary deity Inari Okami, revered for its role in ensuring bountiful harvests and prosperity. With its unique architectural style influenced by traditional Heian-era designs, the shrine's main hall, called the 'Haiden,' features a striking red-painted torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several smaller shrines and shrines dedicated to other local kami.

Suwa Shrine

諏訪神社

Saitama

Suwa Shrine, located in the city of Tokorozawa in Saitama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Suwa-no-kami, known as the 'goddess of water'. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it has been an important center for worship and purification for centuries. The shrine's architecture reflects its age, with a wooden main hall built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Visitors can still see ancient rituals being performed at the shrine, including the sacred ritual 'Shinshu', which is believed to have originated over 1,000 years ago.

Suwa Shrine

諏訪神社

Saitama

Suwa Shrine, located in Saitama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it was originally constructed during the Nara period (710-794 CE). The shrine complex includes several buildings and structures that reflect its rich history, such as the main hall and the shrine square. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds and experience the unique atmosphere that has developed over centuries.

Suzuki Inari Jinja

鈴木稲荷神社

Saitama

Suzuki Inari Jinja, located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the patron deity of rice and industry. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual connection and nature appreciation. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a mix of traditional and modern elements.

Tajimano Shinmei Shrine

田島ノ神明神社

Saitama

Tajimano Shinmei Shrine, located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the island of Tajima. With its rich history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this shrine has played a significant role in the region's spiritual and cultural landscape. The shrine's architectural style reflects the classic Japanese design, with a main hall constructed using traditional materials such as wood and tile roofs.

Tanashi Shrine

田無神社

Saitama

Located in the town of Tanashi, Saitama Prefecture, Tanashi Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, revered as the patron deity of literature, learning, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style, with a wooden torii gate and a vermillion-hued main hall. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine by walking through its serene gardens.

Ten Shrine

天神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama, Ten Shrine is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). This shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu, the sun goddess and primary deity of the Japanese imperial family. The shrine complex features a traditional Japanese architecture style with a large torii gate and several smaller shrines, including those for other regional kami such as Saitama's patron kami, Sōjōin.

Tenso Shrine

天祖神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama, Tenso Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, known as the storm god. The shrine's main hall, constructed during the Edo period, features an impressive wooden roof and ornate decorations. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens and grounds, which are said to be inhabited by various local kami.

Tokihakakihasha

常磐堅磐社（旧本殿）

Saitama

Tokihakakihasha Shrine, located in Saitama Prefecture, is a historic Shinto site dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine was originally constructed as a branch of the famous Konoshima Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture but suffered damage during World War II and was rebuilt in its current form. Today, visitors can admire the shrine's traditional architecture, featuring a five-story pagoda and a large torii gate. The shrine is also famous for its festival held every year on the 31st of December, which celebrates the god's generosity.

Tokorozawa Shimmei Shrine

所澤神明社

Saitama

Tokorozawa Shimmei Shrine, located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Tokorozawa, a region known for its natural beauty and rich history. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Heian period style, with a main hall adorned by elegant curved roofs and ornate wooden lanterns. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, stroll along the nearby Tone River, and experience the local community's warm hospitality.

Tokumaru Kitano Shrine

徳丸北野神社

Saitama

Tokumaru Kitano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, dedicated to the kami Tokumaru. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Heian-era styles, with a large torii gate and a wooden hall adorned with intricate carvings. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which feature a tranquil pond and beautiful cherry blossom trees.

Toshosha

東照社

Saitama

Toshosha Shrine, located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and Shintoism. The shrine is dedicated to the deity of the east wind, known as Toshizuka-no-Okami, who is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who visit. Visitors can explore the serene gardens and tranquil grounds, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Toyokawa Inari Shrine

豊川稲荷神社

Saitama

Toyokawa Inari Shrine, located in the town of Miyashima, is one of Japan's many Inari shrines dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and industry, Inari Okami. The shrine complex features a stunning vermilion torii gate and a tranquil garden, with hundreds of small shrines dedicated to various kami associated with rice farming and commerce. Visitors can walk along the shrine's pathways, adorned with offerings of red string for good luck, and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea at the on-site shop.

Tsuki Jinja Shrine

調神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, Tsuki Jinja Shrine is a tranquil Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the kami of the moon, Tsuki. Built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the shrine's elegant architecture reflects its rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, admire the traditional wooden lanterns, and experience the tranquility that has made this sacred site a haven for centuries.

Ubusuna-jinja

産土神社

Saitama

Ubusuna-jinja Shrine, located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, is dedicated to the kami of the earth and fertility. The shrine's name, Ubusuna, translates to 'the earth's origin' or 'the source of the land'. This Shinto shrine is believed to have been established in a time before written records, and its origins are deeply rooted in the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine's gardens and grounds, which are said to be particularly blessed with natural beauty.

Ubuyasusha

産安社

Saitama

Ubuyasusha Shrine, located in the town of Higashimatsuda in Saitama Prefecture, is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the kami Inari Okami. The shrine's name, Ubuyasusha, roughly translates to 'the place where Inari dwells.' Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds and admire the beautiful vermilion torii gates that surround the main shrine hall.

Uchiya hikawa jinja shrine

内谷氷川神社

Saitama

Uchiya Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Minami-Sosa, Saitama Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the deity of the Hikawa River and is particularly famous for its beautiful autumn foliage. According to legend, the shrine was founded in 1653 by a local daimyo who wanted to build a shrine on the site where his ancestor had discovered a sacred spring.

Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine

若宮八幡神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god of war and patron deity of the Imperial Court, Hachiman. As its name suggests, the shrine is located within the grounds of the Ifukune Palace, a historic residence once occupied by the imperial family. Built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the shrine has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries, with the current structure dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868 CE). Today, visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, adorned with intricately carved wooden pillars and a majestic torii gate.

Washinomiya Shrine

鷲宮神社 (Washinomiya Shrine)

Saitama

Located in the heart of Sakura, Saitama, Washinomiya Shrine is one of Japan's most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. Founded in 718 CE by Prince Nariakira, a regent of Emperor Junnin, the shrine is renowned for its beautiful architecture and rich history. As the primary shrine of the imperial family, it has played a significant role in Japanese politics and society.

Yahashirasha

八柱社

Saitama

Yahashirasha Shrine in Saitama Prefecture is dedicated to the deity of good luck and prosperity, with its name meaning 'Eight Pillars' or 'Eight Postures'. The shrine's architecture reflects its strong connection to the local community, with a unique octagonal torii gate. According to legend, a kami was said to have appeared as an eight-postured spirit, bringing fortune and success to those who honor it.

Yakumo Jinja

八雲神社

Saitama

Located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, Yakumo Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the Japanese weather god, known as Yahashiro. Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the shrine has a long history and is revered for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.