Japanese shrines

Ōike Akiha Jinja

大池秋葉神社

Shizuoka

Ōike Akiha Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of the Ōike Pond. The shrine's name, Ōike, refers to the large pond that surrounds the complex, while Akiha is believed to be the name of an ancient deity enshrined within. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, Ōike Akiha Jinja dates back to the Heian period and has undergone significant changes throughout its history. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of traditional and modern elements, with the iconic torii gate being replaced by a more modern structure. Visitors can walk around the pond and explore the various buildings within the complex.

Oki Shrine

息神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, Oki Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Oi no Kami, who is believed to protect fishermen and sailors. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a maritime temple, with a traditional tiled roof and a large wooden gate. Visitors can experience the shrine's peaceful atmosphere and learn about its rich cultural heritage.

Omiya Shrine

大宮神社

Shizuoka

Located in the scenic town of Kamo, Shizuoka Prefecture, Omiya Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered shrines dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war, learning, and poetry. As a major stopping point on the Nakasendō pilgrimage route, Omiya Shrine has been a center of spiritual significance for centuries.

Onbin-sama

おんびん様

Shizuoka

Located in the scenic city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Onbin-sama Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the kami of rice and agriculture. This shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. According to local legend, the shrine was built on a sacred spot where the god of rice, Inari Okami, was said to have appeared.

Oyama Shrine

大山神社

Shizuoka

Oyama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to the deity Amaterasu Omikami, one of the most revered deities in Japanese mythology. The shrine is situated on the slopes of Mt. Oyama, which is said to be the mythical dwelling place of Amaterasu. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Heian-style designs, with a large torii gate and a distinctive haiden (main hall) adorned with ornate carvings.

Raiden Shrine

雷電神社

Shizuoka

Raiden Shrine, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of thunder, Raijin, and his wife Inazuma. The shrine's architecture reflects its connection to the kami, with a distinctive curved roof and ornate torii gate. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Raiden Shrine has played a significant role in local history and mythology.

Rokusho Shrine

六所神社

Shizuoka

Rokusho Shrine, located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the veneration of multiple deities known as kami. The shrine's name, Rokusho, translates to 'six gates' or 'six thresholds,' which reflects its unique architecture and historical significance.

Rokusho Shrine

六所神社

Shizuoka

Rokusho Shrine, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a sacred site dedicated to the protection and blessings of travelers. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'six gates,' which are believed to represent the six gates of passage that lead to enlightenment. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including its unique shinden-zukuri style buildings, which feature sweeping curved roofs and minimalist designs.

Rokusho-jinja Shrine

六所神社

Shizuoka

Located in the town of Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, Rokusho-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity. The shrine is famous for its beautiful garden, which features a large pond and walking paths. According to legend, the shrine was built by the founder of the city, who sought the help of the kami to bring good fortune and prosperity to his people.

Ryugu Shrine

竜宮神社

Shizuoka

Ryugu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to the water spirit Ryujin, who is believed to rule over the sea and control the weather. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which include a pond with a statue of Ryujin, as well as a shrine hall featuring a large cedar door. According to legend, Ryujin was said to have created the island of Izu and was revered by local fishermen and farmers.

San-jinjya Shrine

山神社

Shizuoka

San-jinjya Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Fujieda, Shizuoka Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Yamatsumi-no-kami, a kami associated with fishing and the sea. Visitors can experience traditional Shinto culture by participating in the shrine's annual O-festivals, which include traditional dances, music performances, and food stalls. The shrine's architecture reflects its long history, with the main hall dating back to the Edo period.

Sanai Shrine

左内神社

Shizuoka

Sanai Shrine is a small but historic Shinto shrine located in the city of Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami of the same name, Sanai Shrine is known for its traditional architecture and scenic surroundings. The shrine complex features several buildings, including a main hall, a torii gate, and several smaller shrines dedicated to various regional deities.

Sangu Shrine

山宮神社

Shizuoka

Sangu Shrine, located in the town of Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the sea god, Suguwara no Hojo. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical period as a Kamakura-era temple, with a unique blend of Buddhist and Shinto influences.

Sarudahiko Shrine

猿田彦神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Sarudahiko Shrine is dedicated to the god of sake and fertility, as well as the patron deity of fishermen and farmers. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical ties to the region's agricultural and fishing industries. Visitors can explore the main hall, which houses a statue of the primary deity Sarudahiko, as well as several smaller shrines and altars.

Sarutahiko Jinja

猿田彦神社

Shizuoka

Sarutahiko Jinja is a historic Shinto shrine located in the town of Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture. The shrine was established in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and enshrines Sarutahiko-no-Kami, the god of the sea and patron deity of fishermen and sailors. The shrine's architecture is a blend of traditional and modern styles, with a distinctive tatara (stone foundation) and a wooden torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum to learn more about its history and cultural significance.

Sengen Shrine

浅間神社

Shizuoka

Located in the town of Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture, Sengen Shrine is a prominent Shinto site dedicated to the god Hachiman, patron deity of war and military service. The shrine's architecture is characterized by its traditional Japanese style, featuring a spacious main hall, tranquil gardens, and a scenic pond. Visitors can experience the unique cultural heritage of this ancient shrine, which has been an important spiritual center for locals since the 8th century.

Shinmei Shrine

神明神社

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of Izu Peninsula, Shinmei Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the god of the sea and fertility, Tsukuyomi, as well as the god of storms, Susanoo. The shrine's architecture reflects its proximity to the ocean, with curved roofs and vermilion accents evoking the vibrant hues of sunset over the Pacific. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature beautifully maintained gardens, a tranquil pond, and an impressive cedar grove.

Shinmei Shrine

神明神社

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, Shinmei Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility, known as the 'goddess of spring.' The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it is steeped in history and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's rich spiritual heritage.

Shinmei Shrine

神明神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Ise, Shizuoka Prefecture, Shinmei Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning and education. The shrine's main image is a statue of the god En no Gyōja, who was revered for his wisdom and knowledge. Visitors can pray for academic success, career advancement, and personal growth at this sacred site.

Shinmei Shrine

神明神社

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Kikugawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, Shinmei Shrine is one of Japan's most ancient shrines, with a history dating back to the early Heian period (794-1185 CE). Dedicated to the kami of rice and fertility, the shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine's historic buildings, including the main hall and the sacred torii gate.

Shinmei shrine

神明神社

Shizuoka

Located in the town of Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, Shinmei Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and prosperity, Ryujin. Dedicated to the memory of Ota no Sōrin, a prominent Shizuoka nobleman from the Edo period (1603-1867), the shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design elements with the presence of a large wooden torii gate and a rectangular shrine building. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and is often visited during the spring festival to celebrate the arrival of spring.

Shinmei Shrine

神明宮

Shizuoka

Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Shinmei Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the kami of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding region. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stopover along the ancient Nakasendo highway. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine's gardens and explore the traditional thatched-roof buildings, which house various shrines and altars.

Shinmeigu Shrine

神明宮

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Shinmeigu Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the worship of the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a vermilion torii gate and a complex network of shrines and halls. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several temples and gardens. In the evening, the shrine is illuminated, creating a serene atmosphere.

Shinmeigu Shrine

神明宮

Shizuoka

Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Shinmeigu Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of learning and wisdom. Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), it is one of Japan's oldest shrines. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period (794-1185 CE) style, with a large main hall and a forested sacred precinct. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several smaller shrines dedicated to various kami.