Shrines & temples

Japanese shrines

OSM directory

Explore Shinto shrines mapped from OpenStreetMap — filter by prefecture, city, or denomination. For curated travel listings, see featured landmark shrines below.

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Denomination

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30,440 shrines

雷光神社

Miyagi

Reigongsu Shrine, located in the Miyagi Prefecture, is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection of fishermen and sailors. The shrine's name, Reigongsu, roughly translates to 'Light Light God Shrine.' Its architecture reflects the region's unique cultural heritage, with a mix of traditional and modern elements. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens and admire its distinctive torii gate. Reigongsu is also famous for its stunning sunset views of the surrounding ocean.

八雲神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Ishinomaki, eight kilometers north of Sendai, Eight Clouds Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of storms and winds. The shrine's name, 'Hachiman-gu' (meaning 'Eight Clouds Shrine'), refers to its association with the storm god, Hachiman. While less prominent than some other shrines in Miyagi Prefecture, Eight Clouds Shrine is still an important destination for locals seeking protection from harsh weather conditions.

水神社

Shizuoka

Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Water God Shrine is dedicated to the kami of water and fertility. With a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this shrine has played a significant role in Japanese culture as a center for water rituals and purification ceremonies. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with traditional wooden structures and sliding doors typical of Nara-era temples. In recent years, Water God Shrine has hosted various festivals to celebrate the arrival of spring, marking the beginning of the new growing season.

沖洲天満宮

Shimane

沖洲天満宮 is a Shinto shrine located in the beautiful coastal town of Oki Island, Shimane Prefecture. As one of the most sacred shrines on the island, it has been revered for centuries by locals and visitors alike. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and stunning ocean views make it an ideal destination for those seeking a spiritual experience.

湊神社

Hyogo

Tomben Shrine, located in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of the sea and trade. The shrine's name 'tomben' roughly translates to 'harbor god'. With its historical roots tracing back to the Edo period, it has been an important site for fishermen and merchants alike. The shrine's architecture features traditional Japanese designs with a distinctive red tile roof.

高藤神社

Hyogo

Located in the city of Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture,高藤神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess of mercy and compassion, known as Kaguya-hime. The shrine is famous for its beautiful garden, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning views of the Akashi Strait. Visitors can also experience traditional Japanese hospitality by participating in a tea ceremony or taking part in one of the shrine's many festivals throughout the year.

行神社

Miyagi

Located in the prefecture of Miyagi, row kami Shrine is dedicated to the enshrined deity Kami no Tsuchi, known as Row, who is often associated with rivers and waterways. The shrine is notable for its unique architectural style, which reflects a mix of traditional Edo-era and local influences.

八幡神社

Miyagi

The Eight-Horned Shrine, located in the Miyagi Prefecture, is one of Japan's most prominent Shinto shrines dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Amaterasu-Ōmikami. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it dates back to 646 CE during the Asuka period. The shrine's architecture showcases a unique blend of traditional and classical elements, reflecting its long history. Visitors can explore the main hall, Torii gates, and other shrine structures, which are adorned with beautiful carvings and vibrant colors.

明神社

Kagawa

The Himeji Shrine, dedicated to the Shitennō-ji temple's legendary founding deities, is a lesser-known but fascinating example of Shinto architecture in western Japan. Built during the Edo period, its distinctive pagoda and torii gate reflect the influence of regional kami, such as those worshipped by the ancient Izumo region's inhabitants. Despite its relative obscurity, the shrine remains an important cultural site for Kagawa residents and visitors alike.

新宮神社

Shiga

Newly Taisha Shrine, located in the heart of Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture, is one of Japan's most revered Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the god of learning and wisdom, Otohime, it has served as a major cultural center for centuries. The shrine's serene gardens and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

八幡神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Eighteen Hands Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the benevolent deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it is believed to have been founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), making it an esteemed cultural and historical landmark. The shrine's name 'Eighteen Hands' originates from its iconic Haiden, or main hall, which features a striking eight-tiered roof resembling a hand grasping for heaven.

吉岡八幡神社

Miyagi

Located in Miyagi Prefecture, 吉岡八幡神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, Benzaiten. The shrine's history dates back to the Heian period, with records of its existence dating back to 816 AD. Its current structure was rebuilt after a fire in 1855, featuring a traditional Japanese architectural style with a vermilion torii gate. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine's gardens and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea.

熊野神社

Miyagi

Hiryu Shrine, located in the scenic city of Sendai, is a sacred site dedicated to the Shinto deity Hachiman, known as the god of war and protector of travelers. Founded during the Nara period (Heian era), it has played a significant role in Japanese history and culture. As one of the oldest shrines in Miyagi Prefecture, Hiryu Shrine is steeped in tradition and offers a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage.

鹿嶋神社

Miyagi

Located in the scenic town of Ishinomaki, Kashiwabara Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and agriculture. The shrine's name, meaning 'deer mountain god temple', reflects its association with the white-tailed deer that roam the surrounding forests. The shrine complex features a distinctive torii gate and a large stone statue of a deer, symbolizing the deity's connection to nature and fertility.

大衡八幡神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Sendai, great-harmony-eight-bends-taikaishinsha shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Taikakushi Hachiman, the deity of war and medicine. The shrine's name reflects its founding in 718 during the Taika Reforms, when the emperor ordered the reorganization of the imperial households and the reestablishment of the traditional shrine system.

上黒山神社

Niigata

Located in the beautiful Oirase area of Niigata Prefecture, Upper Black Mountain Shrine is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Haku, a sacred site revered by both Japanese and Chinese cultures. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Niigata-style carpentry, with a wooden torii gate and tiled roofs adorned with symbolic motifs. While not as well-known as some other shrines in Japan, Upper Black Mountain Shrine remains an important cultural and spiritual destination for local communities.

道祖神社

Chiba

Todaisu Shrine, located in the city of Sodegahama, Chiba Prefecture, is dedicated to the deity of a river and its surrounding areas. The shrine's name, meaning 'river ancestral god,' reflects its connection to the Todaimizu River. It is one of the oldest shrines in Chiba Prefecture, with records dating back to the Edo period. As such, it provides a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture during this time.

久伊豆神社

Gunma

Located in Gunma Prefecture, Izu-kuwa Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the mountain god, Kuwabi no Okami and the local lord, Kuwabizuka no kami. The shrine is built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Japanese sea, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese architecture and serene natural surroundings.

荒木天満天神社

Gunma

Located in the city of Nikkģ, Gunma Prefecture, Tsukumogami Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Tsukuyomi-no-Okami, a kami associated with the moon and time. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which reflect the architectural styles of the Kamakura period. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine while admiring the unique stone lanterns and temple buildings.

松枝神社

新潟県 · 新潟市

Located in the heart of New Nagasaki, a historic district in Niigata City, Matsudai Shrine is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major hub for the production of sake and other grains in the region. The shrine's wooden torii gate was originally built during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and has been rebuilt several times due to fires and natural disasters. Today, visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens, including a famous maple tree that blooms with vibrant red leaves in autumn.

山の神社

Miyagi

Located in the scenic mountains of Miyagi Prefecture, Mount Shrine Shrine honors the kami believed to reside within the mountain's rugged landscape. The shrine's architecture blends traditional Japanese styles with natural elements, reflecting its connection to the surrounding environment. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene grounds and experience the tranquility of nature.

八坂神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Eight Horses Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the legendary Eight Horses that saved Prince Oe no Hosiomori from an invading army in 1598. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of the Kamakura period, with a large torii gate and a rectangular main hall. Visitors can experience the tranquility of this serene oasis amidst the bustling city.

鹿嶋神社

Miyagi

Located in the city of Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, 鹿嶋神社 (Kamiyamada Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Kamiyamada no Okami, a water spirit associated with the nearby Soma Bay. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location and dates back to the Heian period. Visitors can see a unique torii gate that spans across the bay, connecting the main shrine to a smaller, offshore island.

海渡神社

Miyagi

Sea Crossing Shrine, a sacred site dedicated to the kami of sailors and travelers, located in the coastal prefecture of Miyagi. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine grounds, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.