Japanese shrines

大山深西神社

大山深西神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Great Mountain Deep West Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hachiman, patron of warriors and travelers. Built in 1713 during the Edo period, the shrine's architecture reflects its role as a sacred resting place for weary travelers and hunters. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional torii gate, as well as a beautiful cedar tree believed to be over 800 years old.

埴科大宮神社

埴科大宮神社

Nagano

Egawa Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture, on the northern island of Honshu. The shrine's primary kami is Yatagarasu, a three-legged crow deity associated with prophecy and longevity. Located near the Akita River, the shrine is said to have been established during the Sengoku period (1467-1603), making it one of Japan's oldest shrines. As such, Egawa Taisha has played an important role in Japanese history and culture for centuries.

道祖神 筆塚

道祖神 筆塚

Nagano

Shuzenji Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, dedicated to the primary kami Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates and is one of Japan's most iconic Shinto destinations. The shrine complex spans over 12 acres, featuring a beautiful garden, several shrines, and many cultural attractions.

馬頭観世音

馬頭観世音

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Maeda-za Enmei Ojin is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Enmei Ojin, the Buddhist deity of mercy and longevity. The name 'Maeda' translates to 'horse's head,' which may refer to the mythical horse-like creature associated with Enmei Ojin. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, characterized by its tiled roof and wooden structure.

庚申塔

庚申塔

Nagano

Located in the city of Matsumoto, the Jinshita Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the god of thunder, Raijin, and his wife, Raijū. The shrine's main hall is adorned with a beautiful wooden structure featuring traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings on the pillars and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the surrounding gardens.

二十三夜塔

二十三夜塔

Nagano

The Hakuji Shrine in Nagano is dedicated to the spirits of Mount Haku, a sacred peak believed to be the location of the goddess Otohime's palace. According to legend, Otohime descended from heaven and became the protector of the mountain. The shrine is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and stunning natural surroundings.

猿田彦神社

猿田彦神社

Nagano

Afutagahiko Shrine, dedicated to the god of fertility, prosperity, and good fortune, is located in the scenic Nagano prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stop on the ancient Nakasendo Way, which connected Tokyo with Kyoto. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional wooden buildings, adorned with vibrant autumn foliage during the fall season. In line with Shinto traditions, the shrine welcomes visitors at all times, but it is customary to make an offering of food or incense before entering the main hall.

恵那神社前宮

恵那神社前宮

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 恵那神社前宮 is one of the oldest Shinto shrines dedicated to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu and the Storm God Susanoo. The shrine's rich history dates back to the Nara period (710-794 CE), with evidence of a temple existing on the site since then. Over time, it has undergone various transformations, with significant changes made during the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE). Today, visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a distinctive tiled roof and intricate carvings, as well as its beautiful garden and peaceful grounds.

柳町神社

柳町神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Kamakura, the Shimofusa Inari Shrine honors Inari Okami, the Shinto deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine is situated on a hill overlooking the ocean, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. With its traditional vermilion torii gate and intricate carvings, the shrine embodies the essence of Japanese architecture.

御嶽神社

御嶽神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, 御嶽神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Ōyashiro-sama, the goddess of childbirth and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a tiled roof and vermilion accents, typical of the region's style during the Edo period. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a sacred pond and several ancestral graves.

諏訪神社（片桐氏発祥地）

諏訪神社（片桐氏発祥地）

Nagano

諏訪神社は長野県の中心部に位置し、長野県を代表する有名な Shrines です。片桐氏の発祥地として知られるこの神社は、信州を支配した古代の氏族である片桐氏から名がもめられています。 この神社では、各季節にさまざまな祭典と行事が行われます。夏には「諏訪八宿」に伝わる伝説で有名な『諏訪盆踊り』があり、秋には『諏訪神社 Autumn Festival』が行われます。 この神社では、さまざまな kami が祀られていることが知られています。これらのうち最も著名なのは「諏訪大神」です。彼は長野県の保護と福祉を守るための神として、多くの信者に敬意を払われます。

下の宮荒神社

下の宮荒神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, below-miyagokami-ara-no-kami-ha-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to various kami. The shrine's name reflects its location near the forested area of below-miyagoka, where it enshrines the spirit of the mountain. This shrine is often associated with the worship of the mountain spirit and is said to bring good luck to those who visit.

出早神社

出早神社

Nagano

Oute-jinja, located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, is a Shinto shrine that has been an important center of worship and culture for locals for centuries. While details about its founding are scarce, it is known to have played a significant role in the region's spiritual life during times of agricultural prosperity. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature a serene garden and ancient cedar trees.

五十鈴神社

五十鈴神社

Nagano

Fifty-Suzumei Shrine, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Suzumeyu-no-kami and his consort, Kunitokamayumi-hime. The shrine's name 'Suzumeyu' means 'sound of the bell', reflecting its association with the sacred sound of the bell, an essential element in Shinto rituals. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and explore the traditional architecture, including the wooden torii gate and the vermilion-colored main hall.

かっぱ神社

かっぱ神社

Nagano

Kappa-gappa-jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese Alps, specifically in the prefecture of Nagano. Dedicated to the kami of wisdom, knowledge, and water, the shrine attracts visitors who seek good fortune, prosperity, and purification. The unique architecture of the shrine, with its red-tiled roofs and wooden pillars, reflects traditional Japanese design.

覚明神社

覚明神社

Nagano

Zankōjinsha, located in the town of Kitadani, Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Zankō, who is believed to have created the world and all living things. The shrine is famous for its beautiful garden, traditional architecture, and local festivals.

神明神社

神明神社

Nagano

Located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Shinto Shinmei Shrine is a serene and secluded oasis dedicated to the worship of the deity Shinmei. This shrine is particularly notable for its traditional architecture and historic significance, making it a popular destination for those seeking an authentic Shinto experience.

水神

水神

Nagano

The Shinshu Water God Shrine, dedicated to the Shinsen-kami, is a lesser-known Shinto shrine in Nagano Prefecture. The shrine's primary kami is believed to be the god of rivers and water, revered by local communities for its life-giving properties. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and tranquil ponds, said to be inspired by ancient Shinto designs.

根子岳神社

根子岳神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps,根子岳神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Kami of Mount Yari, revered by locals as a symbol of good fortune and perseverance. Visitors can explore the serene grounds, featuring traditional architecture and stunning mountain views.

石船観音

石船観音

Nagano

Located in the heart of Japan's beautiful Nagano Prefecture, Shi-ten Kaneimon is a tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kanon. The shrine's unique name reflects its connection to maritime history and trade. As you approach the shrine, notice the carefully maintained traditional Japanese garden, featuring carefully pruned bonsai trees and a serene pond. Visitors can walk through the peaceful grounds, reflecting on the balance between land and sea.

殿村八幡宮

殿村八幡宮

Nagano

Hasedo Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the village of Hasedo, Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to the god of war and victory, Hachiman, it is believed to have been built in the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Japanese style featuring a main hall and several smaller shrines. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a beautiful garden and several ancient trees.

箕輪南宮神社（春宮）

箕輪南宮神社（春宮）

Nagano

Located in the mountains of Nagano, Spring Palace Shrine (Haru-no-miya) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Ojin, also known as Ninigi-no-Mikoto, who is said to have descended from heaven. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as one of Japan's oldest and most revered shrines, with influences from the Heian period. The shrine complex includes several shrines for different kami, including those associated with fertility and prosperity.

岡宮神社

岡宮神社

Nagano

Located in the town of Kami, Nagano Prefecture, Okamimachi Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of good luck and prosperity. The shrine's main deity is Inazuma Yamato-no-Kami, an important Shinto god associated with the gods of the sun and storms. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including the torii gate and the honden, which dates back to the Edo period.

小町屋の山之神

小町屋の山之神

Nagano

Located in the picturesque town of Karuizawa, Minamigahara Shrine is dedicated to the mountain god of a small town, 'Ko-machi-yā's mountain god'. With its unique architecture and serene surroundings, this shrine offers visitors a glimpse into rural Japan's spiritual heritage. The shrine's design reflects the region's natural beauty, blending seamlessly into its environment. As one of the most famous shrines in Nagano Prefecture, Minamigahara Shrine is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Shinto experience.