Japanese shrines

熊野神社

熊野神社

Ibaraki

Narita-san's legendary sword was said to have been buried by the mythical hero Susanoo-no-Mikoto in order to keep it from being used against him. In an attempt to retrieve his sword, Narita is often depicted as a foolish and naive man, which led to the establishment of this shrine. As a result, the shrine's focus is on the deity responsible for the recovery of one's lost property or objects.

鉾田八幡宮

鉾田八幡宮

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ōtōda Hachiman-gū is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Hachiman, patron deity of the Japanese army and protector of the land. The shrine's current structure dates back to the Edo period, but it is believed that the original temple was built during the Heian period. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, which feature several historic buildings, including the iconic Ōtōda Hachiman Shrine's main hall and the Kashima-jinja Honmatsu-meguri (Kashima Shrine's Main Gate).

稲田神社

稲田神社

Ibaraki

Indateda Shrine, located in the town of Kamino, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Ryujin and Hikoboshi. The shrine is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. According to local legend, Indateda Shrine was founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki Prefecture.

稲田神社 奥の院

稲田神社 奥の院

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, 稲田神社 奥の院 is a serene Shinto shrine nestled within a beautiful forested area known as Otsu no in. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking spiritual solace.

八坂神社

八坂神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Hitachi Seaside Town, Hikarigaoka Eight-Sacred Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine that honors the kami of the eight-sacred path at Takasago, a mythical place where the sun rises and sets. The shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity, as well as other local deities such as Ryujin, the dragon god, and Fujin, the wind god.

八坂神社

八坂神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Minamihashiri, Ibaraki Prefecture, Eight Hills Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the eight peaks of Mount Iwaki, which rises behind the shrine. The shrine's primary deity is Susanoo, and it is known for its beautiful garden and traditional architecture.

回天神社

回天神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Tomobe, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ryūten-jinja Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of storms and rainbows, Ryūten. This shrine is one of the oldest in Japan, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a simple yet elegant design featuring a large torii gate and a hall dedicated to the god of the sun and storms.

愛宕神社

愛宕神社

Ibaraki

Love Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture, dedicated to the love of Emperor Naruhito and his wife Empress Masako. Dedicated on December 23, 2019. It's the first time that an imperial couple has been deified as kami of a Shinto shrine.

一盃山稲荷神社

一盃山稲荷神社

Ibaraki

One-ku-yama Inari Shrine, located in the scenic Ibaraki Prefecture, is a revered Shinto temple dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of fertility, rice, and industry. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'one bowl mountain Inari Shrine,' referring to the unique stone monument at its entrance. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, which feature traditional Japanese landscaping and walking paths. On special occasions, locals adorn the shrine with vibrant pink and white paper lanterns, adding a festive touch to the tranquil atmosphere.

ほしいも神社

ほしいも神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, ほいにも神社 is a serene Shinto shrine that honors the kami of abundance and good fortune. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period, with a characteristic hiragane-style gate and a tranquil garden featuring cherry blossoms and maple trees. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful grounds and participate in traditional festivals to seek blessings for prosperity and happiness.

木花咲耶姫神社

木花咲耶姫神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Yuki, Ibaraki Prefecture, Sakaya-hikitsune no Kami Hiyoshi Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Sakayakitsune no kami, the 'Sakura Tree Maiden'. This unique name reflects the shrine's association with cherry blossoms, which are abundant in the area. The shrine is believed to be founded during the Edo period (1603-1867) and features a distinctive sakura-shaped roof. Visitors can admire the beautiful spring blooms and experience the serene atmosphere of this tranquil Shinto sanctuary.

酒列磯前神社旧社跡

酒列磯前神社旧社跡

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Minamiseita in Ibaraki Prefecture, Komiya Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari Okami. The shrine is situated on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is famous for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Shinto elements with influences from Chinese and Buddhist traditions. The shrine's main hall was originally built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), while the shrine's current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867 CE). Inari Okami is revered as a patron of rice, fertility, and prosperity.

赤坂稲荷神社

赤坂稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Akatsuka Inari Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. The shrine's name, Akatsuka, translates to 'clear stream,' which may symbolize the fertility and abundance associated with Inari's domain. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, adorned with vermilion torii gates and traditional Japanese architecture, and participate in festive rituals honoring the kami.

津神社

津神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachimatsushima, Tsukino Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Hiko Mikoto and the god of agriculture. The shrine is situated near the coast, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, making it an important site for fishermen and travelers alike. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with a unique blend of traditional Japanese styles and natural materials such as wood and stone.

家宝稲荷神社

家宝稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Hase-ya Inari Shrine, located in the town of Kamakura, is dedicated to the Shinto god of fertility and prosperity. This historic shrine, built during the Edo period (1603-1867), features a distinctive thatched roof and a tranquil garden surrounded by tall trees. Visitors can make offerings at the shrine's main torii gate, which is adorned with traditional sweets and lucky charms.

起松神社

起松神社

Ibaraki

Mitsumine Shrine, located in the Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Mitama-no-Okami, who is revered as a protector of the region. With its rich history dating back to the Heian period, the shrine has been an important cultural and spiritual hub for the local community. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including the large torii gate and wooden structures, which are adorned with symbolic motifs such as cherry blossoms and plum blossoms.

金比羅神社

金比羅神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Gold Pavilion Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the vengeful spirit of Kinryu, a samurai who died during the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185. According to legend, Kinryu was so outraged by his own death that he cursed those responsible and vowed to haunt them for eternity. Today, visitors can still experience the shrine's eerie atmosphere and pay respects to this vengeful spirit.

鷹房稲荷神社

鷹房稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Yashima in Ibaraki Prefecture, Yashima Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and fertility. The shrine complex features multiple shrines dedicated to various kami, including Shime no Kami and Futsu no Kami. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a peaceful retreat from city life.

銭座稲荷神社

銭座稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture, Gintei Inari Shrine is dedicated to Gintei Inari, the god of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine's name, which translates to 'Money God Inari,' reflects its association with wealth and financial success. With its unique architectural style and historical significance, this shrine is an important cultural site in Ibaraki.

関戸水神宮

関戸水神宮

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Water God Shrine is a tranquil oasis nestled between mountains and waterways. Dedicated to the deity of water, it has been an important spiritual center for locals since ancient times. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and traditional architecture.

鹿島香取神社

鹿島香取神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic prefecture of Ibaraki, 鹿島香取神社 is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami, Uke Mochi and Okami no Karasuma, worshipped by local fishermen and villagers for centuries. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a vermilion torii gate and a tranquil atmosphere.

熊野神社

熊野神社

Ibaraki

Kūno-miya Shrine, also known as Kūno-no-Mori Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to the kami Kū no kami and other deities associated with nature and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical connection to the Imperial Family, showcasing elements of Heian period (794-1185 CE) Shinto design. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a sacred oak tree believed to be over 1,200 years old, as well as traditional Shinto buildings and gardens.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Ibaraki

Tonosawa Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Ōinaginoomi no Okami, a kami often associated with fertility and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, featuring a houzan (main hall) with a tiled roof. Visitors can enjoy the shrine's peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings along the nearby Tonosawa River.

鴨大神御子神主玉神社

鴨大神御子神主玉神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Tamagawa-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the avian kami known as Tsurugi no Okami and others. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'Swan God Shrine' or 'Swan Great God Shrine'. As one of the oldest shrines in Mito, it has been an important site for worship and rituals since ancient times. Visitors can walk along the Tamagawa River and explore the shrine grounds, which feature traditional Shinto architecture and beautiful gardens.