Japanese shrines

Kumano Shrine

熊野神社

Shizuoka

Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Kumano Shrine is one of the most famous and ancient Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the worship of the kami of the Kumano region. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of old and new, with traditional wooden structures alongside modern facilities. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several smaller shrines and temples, as well as take part in various festivals and events throughout the year. Kumano Shrine is also known for its stunning natural surroundings, including the nearby Mt. Koya-san and the Kumano River.

Kumano Shrine; Hachiman Shrine

熊野神社 八幡神社

Shizuoka

Kumano Shrine, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the kami of Hachiman and other regional deities. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has played a significant role in the country's history and culture for centuries. The shrine complex spans across two hills, embodying the principles of harmony with nature. Visitors can explore the various shrines and temples within the grounds, including the famous Kumano Sanzan pilgrimage route, which attracts thousands of devotees each year.

Kumomi-Sengen Shrine

雲見浅間神社

Shizuoka

Located in the mountains of Shizuoka Prefecture, Kumomi-Sengen Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami (deities) of the region. The shrine's name, 'Kumomi', refers to the mountainous terrain surrounding it, and 'Sengen' means 'origin' or 'source'. According to local legend, the shrine was built by the imperial family during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), and is one of several shrines in the Sengen network that commemorates the founding of Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The shrine is known for its beautiful autumn foliage and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Kunōzan Tōshō-gū

久能山東照宮

Shizuoka

Tōshō-gū, located at the foot of Mount Ōedan in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a prominent Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of Japan's most influential feudal lords. The shrine's main hall, the Haiden, features a 10-story pagoda and a distinctive red roof, while its inner sanctuary, the Main Shrine, houses the enshrined statue of Ieyasu. Built in 1617 during the Edo period, Tōshō-gū is renowned for its impressive architecture and rich history.

Kusanagi Shrine

草薙神社

Shizuoka

Kusanagi Shrine, located in the Japanese prefecture of Shizuoka, is one of Japan's most revered shrines dedicated to the legendary sword Kusanagi no Tsurugi. According to myth, the blade was given by Amaterasu, the sun goddess, to Prince Yamato and has since been enshrined at this shrine. As a key location in Japanese mythology and history, Kusanagi Shrine is often associated with good fortune, prosperity, and protection. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, blending traditional Shinto elements with local influences.

Maruyama Shrine

丸山神社

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Maruyama Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, Hachiman. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble mountain temple, with wooden structures and traditional torii gates. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which feature several temples and shrines within a single complex.

Miho Shrine

御穂神社

Shizuoka

Miho Shrine, located in the city of Katsuura, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. The shrine's name, 'miho,' means 'sun' or 'bright,' reflecting its connection to the celestial deity. Built during the Edo period, the shrine's architecture blends traditional and modern elements, showcasing the cultural harmony of Japan. Visitors can explore the serene gardens and tranquil pathways that reflect the tranquility of nature.

Minowa Inari Shrine

美濃輪稲荷神社

Shizuoka

Minowa Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and traditional architecture, which reflects the Heian period's influence on Japanese design. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful grounds, adorned with thousands of clay tokens, known as 'emaki,' to wish for good fortune and success.

Mishima Shirine

三島神社

Shizuoka

Mishima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Kihoku, Shizuoka Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami of the sea and fertility, the shrine is known for its beautiful coastal location and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a stunning torii gate and a museum showcasing local art and history. The surrounding area offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands.

Mishima Shrine

三嶋神社

Shizuoka

Located in the scenic town of Katsuragi, Shizuoka Prefecture, Mishima Shrine is dedicated to the god of the sea, Mikoto Ōnoirashinaka-no-kami. The shrine's name is derived from its proximity to the sea and its association with the deity who watched over the fishing village of Mikata. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, which features a distinctive torii gate and a tranquil garden. On the beach below, one can see the remains of an ancient temple, believed to have been dedicated to the same deity.

Mishima Shrine

三嶋神社

Shizuoka

Mishima Shrine, located in the town of Shimoda in Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with records dating back to 718 CE. As a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea, Mishima Shrine is deeply connected to the history and culture of the region. Its traditional architecture reflects the local Edo period style, with a distinctive five-story pagoda at its center.

Mishima Shrine

三島神社

Shizuoka

Mishima Shrine, located in the town of Kamo, Shizuoka Prefecture, is dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice and industry. The shrine's current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867), although it has undergone several renovations over the centuries. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens, which feature a large torii gate and various shrines dedicated to different aspects of Inari Okami's domain.

Mishima Shrine

三島神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hadano, Shizuoka Prefecture, Mishima Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea and prosperity, Kamui Kamadana. The shrine was originally built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) as a simple torii gate, but it has undergone several renovations and expansions throughout its history. In 1993, the shrine's main hall was rebuilt in the traditional Nagoya-zukuri style of Shizuoka Province. Today, Mishima Shrine is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and architecture.

Mitaka Shrine

見高神社

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, Mitaka Shrine is a small but charming Shinto shrine dedicated to various kami, including Mitaka no Okami, the deity believed to reside within the nearby Mt. Atago. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style, with a simple yet elegant design featuring a vermilion torii gate and a wooden hondo. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful grounds, which offer a serene escape from the bustling city.

Mitaka Shrine Sacred Music Chamber

見高神社神楽殿

Shizuoka

Mitaka Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of fire, Hachiman, and is located in the heart of the Japanese Alps in Shizuoka Prefecture. Built in 1630, the sacred music chamber of the shrine features a unique blend of traditional and modern architecture. The shrine's main hall, dedicated to Hachiman, boasts an impressive roof with eight slopes that symbolize the eight virtues of Buddhism. Visitors can enjoy traditional festivals and performances, including the famous 'Mitaka Shrine Sacred Music Festival,' which showcases the shrine's iconic instrument, the 'shin-en-bushi.'

Morokuchi Shrine

諸口神社

Shizuoka

Morokuchi Shrine, located in the city of Fujieda in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and justice. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture, which features a distinctive curved roof that evokes the shape of a Japanese boat. According to local legend, the shrine was built on the site where a samurai named Tadakazu Okita sacrificed himself during a battle against rival forces.

Nagahama Shrine

長濱神社

Shizuoka

Nagahama Shrine, dedicated to the kami of the sea and fertility, is a serene Shinto site located in the picturesque coastal town of Nagahama, Shizuoka Prefecture. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and beautiful gardens create an idyllic setting for visitors to connect with nature and honor the ancient deities. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a center for local industry and commerce, showcasing traditional Japanese design elements.

Neno Shrine

子神社

Shizuoka

Neno Shrine, located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, is a serene Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Heian period style, with a distinctive tatara torii gate and a tranquil main hall. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, which are said to be a favorite haunt of the shrine's primary deity, Neno-gami, the god of rice and agriculture.

Nijūsho Jinja

十二所神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Nijūsho Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess of good fortune and prosperity, Fujin. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful architecture, with a main hall designed in the traditional Heian period style. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine's gardens, which feature a stunning waterfall. Nijūsho Jinja is also famous for its annual autumn festival, where locals celebrate the harvest season with vibrant parades and traditional performances.

Nishibira Shrine

西平神社

Shizuoka

Nishibira Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of the sea and fishing. The shrine's name, Nishibira, means 'northern wind' or 'north wind', which may refer to the strong oceanic winds that prevail in the area. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, including a wooden torii gate and a large stone lantern.

Nishishinmei Shrine

西神明神社

Shizuoka

Nishishinmei Shrine, located in the mountains of Shizuoka Prefecture, is a lesser-known Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's name, Nishishinmei, roughly translates to 'Western Heavenly Pureness.' Its primary enshrined deity is not well-documented, but it is believed to be associated with the kami of rice and wheat. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens and traditional wooden structures, which date back to the Heian period. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of regional styles, blending elements of Japanese and Chinese influences.

Nomoto Shrine

野本神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Ise, Shizuoka Prefecture, Nomoto Shrine is a historic Shinto temple dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Inari Ōkami. The shrine's architecture reflects its humble beginnings as a small village shrine, with a simple, rectangular main hall surrounded by lush gardens and a peaceful pond. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred site during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.

Ogushi Jinja Shrine

小梳神社

Shizuoka

Located in the Shimane prefecture, but close to Shizuoka, Ogushi Jinja Shrine is a small Shinto shrine that honors the kami, Hachiman-no-Mikoto. The shrine is famous for its well-preserved ancient gate, which dates back to the 17th century. The shrine is also known for its unique architectural style, which reflects the influence of the Shimane region's traditional crafts. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and rich history of Ogushi Jinja Shrine.

Ohito Shrine

大仁神社

Shizuoka

Ohito Shrine, dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nissaka, Shizuoka Prefecture. The shrine is known for its beautiful garden and traditional architecture, with a unique octagonal torii gate. According to local legend, the shrine was built on a site believed to be the residence of Ohito, a legendary princess from Japanese mythology.