Japanese shrines

赤尾関のお社

赤尾関のお社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Toga, Ibaraki Prefecture, Akakawa no sekisho o-miya is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the pass, also known as the god of roads and highways. The shrine is nestled in a scenic area surrounded by mountains and rice fields, making it a serene oasis for those seeking spiritual guidance. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional wooden buildings and a tranquil garden.

高房大明神

高房大明神

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Nagareyama, Ibaraki Prefecture, Takamagahara Daijinsha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of war and agriculture, Tamayamagi-no-kami, and also enshrines the deities of prosperity, Takamagahara-no-Okami, and Miroku-no-okami. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical importance during the Heian period, with a unique ' takizakura' (palm tree) style that is characteristic of ancient Japanese shrines.

鹿嶋神社

鹿嶋神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Kashima,鹿嶋神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inazuma, the kami of lightning and storms, and Kagami-Boko, the god of mirrors and reflections. The shrine's architecture reflects its importance as a sacred site for purification and spiritual growth. Visitors can explore the serene grounds, including the moss-covered torii gate and the reflecting pool.

銭洗弁天神社

銭洗弁天神社

Ibaraki

Sakainashi Otenmangū is a Shinto shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to the Kami of prosperity and good fortune. Located near the old post town of Shirako, the shrine's name literally means 'money wash god temple.' Its architecture reflects the traditional style of Edo period shrines, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. The shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and vibrant cherry blossoms in spring.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Ibaraki

Uzunomiya-taisha, also known as Temman-ji, is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Naka, Ibaraki Prefecture. It is dedicated to the deity Ō no Amaterasu Ōmikami and has connections to the legendary hero Susanoo-no-Mikoto, brother of the sun goddess. The shrine complex features a unique architectural style with a mix of traditional and modern elements.

息栖神社

息栖神社

Ibaraki

Kirikiri no Okami Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Kirikiri no Okami, a kami associated with fertility and prosperity. The shrine is situated near the banks of the Kinugawa River and is known for its scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese architecture, including a main hall, torii gate, and several smaller shrines. The shrine's garden also features a beautiful cherry blossom tree that blooms in spring.

鹿嶋神社

鹿嶋神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Sakura, Ibaraki Prefecture, 鹵嶋神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the rabbit and mountain. The shrine's name, which translates to 'rabbit summit shrine', reflects its association with the Japanese word for rabbit (usagi) and a natural mountain summit (ishi). The shrine is situated in a scenic area surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

鹿島神社

鹿島神社

Ibaraki

Kabukama Jinja, commonly known as Kabusuma Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, not Ibaraki. However, there is another shrine named 鹿島神社 (Kami Island Shrine) located in Naka, Ibaraki Prefecture. This shrine is dedicated to the water kami, Namahime, and the rice god, Ninagi-kabane, as well as other regional deities. The shrine's architecture reflects its importance as a site for water management and agriculture. Visitors can learn about the history of the shrine and the myths surrounding its kami through various exhibits and artifacts.

二所神社

二所神社

Ibaraki

Two-so Shrine, located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess and the most important deity in Japanese mythology. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a rectangular main hall surrounded by a garden. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and observe the ceremonial activities performed here.

五平神社

五平神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Katsura, Fukushima Prefecture's neighboring Ibaraki is where you can find Five Plain Shrine, dedicated to a unique deity from Japanese mythology. The shrine stands on an old five-ploughed field that was once used by the local farming community for their agricultural purposes, hence its name. The interior of the shrine is adorned with various shrines and temples, all contributing to the complex's rich history and spiritual significance.

白幡神社

白幡神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Kuroiso, Ibaraki Prefecture, the White Mane Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Mokujin Hiko-no-Mikoto and Tsukihime Mikoto. The shrine's primary deity, Mokujin Hiko-no-Mikoto, is associated with the forest and agriculture. The White Mane Shrine features traditional Japanese architecture, including a tiled-roof hall and a torii gate, and is known for its unique white-painted main hall. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a forested area and a pond, and participate in various Shinto rituals and ceremonies throughout the year.

湯泉神社

湯泉神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture, Tozui Shrine is a serene Shinto oasis nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by natural hot springs. Dedicated to the kami of hot water, it has been an integral part of the local community for centuries, playing host to numerous festivals throughout the year. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere and take advantage of the nearby bathing facilities, a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate.

秋葉神社

秋葉神社

Ibaraki

Akibayashi Shrine, located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a serene and tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of the autumn leaf. The shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage, attracting many visitors each year. Its architecture reflects traditional Japanese style with a tiled roof and sliding doors, creating an intimate atmosphere.

八坂神社

八坂神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Sasanuma, Ibaraki Prefecture, Hasekawa Jishu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of the imperial court. The shrine is renowned for its unique eight-story pagoda called 'Hassakawa' and is a major pilgrimage site in Japan.

八幡神社

八幡神社

Ibaraki

The eight-horned shrine of Eight Horseshoes Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the sea, particularly Ebisu and Hachiman. Built during the Edo period, the shrine's main hall features a unique curved roof, while its torii gate is adorned with eight vermilion horses' heads. The shrine is known for its beautiful garden and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation.

八幡神社

八幡神社

Ibaraki

Eight Horseshoe Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the Shinto sun goddess. The shrine's unique horseshoe shape is said to symbolize protection and good luck. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature a large torii gate and several small shrines for various kami. In Ibaraki Prefecture, it is traditional to tie red strings between friends as a symbol of love and affection.

日枝神社

日枝神社

Ibaraki

Dayo Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to the deity Kamikaze Yotoko, who is believed to watch over fishermen and ships at sea. The shrine's architecture reflects its seaside location, with traditional torii gates and wooden buildings designed to withstand typhoons. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a scenic beach and a historic shipwreck site.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Hitachi in Ibaraki Prefecture, Tomioka Shrine is dedicated to the god of rice, sake, and good fortune, known as Tamamo-no-Mae, but also Tomioka Hachiman and Umi Kamado. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of traditional Japanese styles, including the distinctive pagoda tower and ornate roofed halls.

保呂輪神社

保呂輪神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Nihari, Ibaraki Prefecture, Kuroba Rinsen-sha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of rice and prosperity. The shrine's primary deity is Hachiman, but it also enshrines the local rice goddess, Kagami no Kami. Visitors can experience the peaceful atmosphere of this rural shrine, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style, with a tiled roof and wooden pillars.

御城稲荷神社

御城稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Yatsu, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ōgatsumiya Inari Shrine is one of Japan's oldest Inari Shrines, dedicated to the kami Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its vermilion torii gate and traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a pond, walking paths, and historic buildings. The shrine is also known for its annual festivals, including the Sōbu-sai festival in May.

五柱神社

五柱神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Five-Column Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the worship of various kami and deities. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a site of ancient rituals and ceremonies. Its name, 'Five-Column Shrine', is derived from the five main columns that support the roof, believed to represent the five virtues of humanity: benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and sincerity.

大渕天神社 天満宮

大渕天神社 天満宮

Ibaraki

大渕天神社天滿宮 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of water and prosperity. The shrine complex consists of three main buildings: the Haiden (main hall), the Honden (inner sanctuary), and the Omoterasu-den (treasure house). Visitors can admire the intricately carved wooden doors and gates, as well as the beautiful garden featuring a large stone lantern and a tranquil pond. The shrine is also famous for its delicious food stalls offering local specialties such as ningyo-yaki (small grilled cakes) and sake.

與利稲荷神社

與利稲荷神社

Ibaraki

與利稲荷神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to the rice-protecting kami, Kunitokamimi, and also enshrined are various regional kami, including that of a mythical creature known as a 'tsukumogami'. The shrine was likely established during the Edo period. As one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, it features traditional architectural styles and beautiful gardens. Visitors can participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies, such as the autumnal 'Matsuri' festival.

三所神社

三所神社

Ibaraki

Located in the picturesque town of Yūki, Ibaraki Prefecture, San no Sato Shrine is a historic Shinto site dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility. The name 'San no Sato' translates to 'Three Villages', as it was originally built to unite three nearby villages under a single shrine. Today, visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and enjoy traditional Japanese architecture.