Japanese shrines

船戸天満宮

船戸天満宮

Ibaraki

Located in the prefecture of Ibaraki, 舶戸天満宮 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the sea and navigation. The shrine's name, meaning 'wharf shrine,' reflects its historical connection as a port town. Built during the Edo period, the shrine features traditional Japanese architecture with a distinctive curved roof. Visitors can admire the shrine's beautiful garden, which is particularly famous for its autumn foliage.

大下稲荷神社

大下稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Daisho Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a distinctive torii gate and ornate vermilion walls. Founded during the Edo period (1603-1867), the shrine is one of the oldest in Ibaraki Prefecture.

幸主神社

幸主神社

Ibaraki

The Honmyoji Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture is dedicated to the Kami of good luck, prosperity, and harvests. Built in 1658 during the Edo period, it is one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki, with a long history of serving the local community.

女躰神社

女躰神社

Ibaraki

Nukuu of the shrine, '女躰神社' can be translated to 'Goddess of the Body'. This name suggests a connection with fertility and protection. Female kami are not uncommon in Shinto shrines across Japan, as they often serve roles related to household and family duties.

浅間神社

浅間神社

Ibaraki

Located in the rural town of Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture,浅間神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Kashima San, a kami believed to protect travelers and fishermen. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble temple founded in 700 CE during the Nara period. Over time, the shrine has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which feature a beautiful pond and walking trails, as well as participate in traditional festivals such as the Kashima San Matsuri, held annually in May.

香取神社

香取神社

Ibaraki

Hakutoga Shrine, located in the town of Yuzawa in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Makoto-Okami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning gardens, which are said to be designed by the great Japanese landscape architect, Hori Hachiro. According to local legend, the shrine was built in 1613 to mark the end of a long period of famine in the area. Today, visitors can still see the remains of ancient agricultural tools and other historical artifacts on display at the shrine.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Ibaraki

The Tsukino-ma Shrine, located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan's most revered Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the deity Inari Okami, it has been a sacred site for centuries, with its roots dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine is famous for its intricate torii gates and stunning autumn foliage, attracting visitors from all over Japan during the fall season. With its rich history and cultural significance, Tsukino-ma Shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Japan's ancient traditions.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, the Tsukubamiyabashi Inari Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the patron deity of rice and industry. This shrine is particularly famous for its unique architecture, which features a series of bridges spanning over 1 kilometer, creating a picturesque landscape that reflects the spirit of the natural world.

駒形神社

駒形神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Shimodate, in the prefecture of Ibaraki, Shimosuwa Shrine is a small but historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Ōkami, the god of rice and fertility. The shrine's architecture is typical of Edo period Shinto shrines, featuring a traditional hipped roof and a main hall with a torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several small buildings and gardens, as well as a museum showcasing local artifacts and relics.

井野天満神社

井野天満神社

Ibaraki

Izuno Tennoshinsha is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Ochiba, Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Izuno Tennoshinsha, a kami associated with agriculture and fertility, as well as Inari Okami, patron deity of rice and commerce. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with a main hall constructed from black pine wood. Visitors can observe the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom in front of the shrine during spring, and participate in the annual Ochiba matsuri festival to celebrate the arrival of spring.

取手総鎮守 八坂神社

取手総鎮守 八坂神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Yokosuka, Takechi Uemiyashiro Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Uemiyashiro Okami, associated with good fortune and prosperity. As one of the most famous shrines in Japan, it attracts millions of visitors each year. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a 7th-century castle shrine, with a majestic wooden torii gate and traditional Shinto gardens.

香取神社

香取神社

Ibaraki

Located in the picturesque town of Fukuda, Ibaraki Prefecture, Tsukushi no Kami Shrine is a serene Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the god Tsukushi Okami, a benevolent kami associated with fertility and prosperity. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere invites visitors to experience the harmony between nature and spirituality. As one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki, it showcases traditional architecture and holds significant cultural value.

伊弉諾神社

伊弉諾神社

Ibaraki

Ibara-no-ma Shrine, located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, the deity of rice and prosperity. The shrine complex features an impressive wooden torii gate and a tranquil garden. According to local legend, the shrine was founded in 718 CE by Prince Oshisaka, a daughter's son of Emperor Shōmu.

大野天満宮

大野天満宮

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Okachibamura, Ibaraki Prefecture, Daiyō Tennō-jinja Shrine is dedicated to Ō no Tenno, a legendary Shōsenji (Soga no Ōno) who brought Buddhism and other foreign influences to Japan. This shrine showcases a unique blend of traditional and modern architecture, while incorporating regional architectural styles prevalent in the area during the Edo period.

高砂八幡神社

高砂八幡神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, 高砂八幡神社 is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the patron deity of fertility, rice cultivation, and industry. This charming shrine is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere for visitors seeking spiritual connection with nature. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a large torii gate and intricately designed wooden buildings. As one of the most historic shrines in Ibaraki Prefecture, 高砂八幡神社 offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

日枝神社

日枝神社

Ibaraki

Dayo Shrine, dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility, is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture. Its origins date back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in the region. The shrine's architecture reflects its agricultural significance, with the main hall featuring an imposing roofed structure adorned with wooden carvings. Visitors can experience the serene beauty of the shrine gardens and observe traditional Shinto rituals performed by the shrine staff.

西袋・柳之宮氷川神社

西袋・柳之宮氷川神社

Ibaraki

West Bagu-ura Tree Sanctuary Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Kami of the forest and the tree, located in the scenic Iwaki Peninsula of Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine's name, '氷川神社' (Kurakawa-jinja), translates to 'Snowfall River Shrine', reflecting the region's unique landscape where snowfall is a rare occurrence but has a profound impact on the local ecosystem. As you walk through the serene forest surroundings, pay homage to the deities that inhabit this sacred space.

神明宮

神明宮

Ibaraki

Nikko's lesser-known cousin, Godaikan Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Tsukiyomi, god of the moon and seas. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture inspired by the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. It was built during the Edo period, specifically during the reign of Emperor Meiji, as a humble temple without any imperial connections. In recent years, the shrine gained attention from tourists who visit it along with nearby Nikko's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

雷電社

雷電社

Ibaraki

雷電社 Shrine, located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of lightning and thunder. The shrine's name, '雷電社', translates to 'Electricity Temple'. Its unique architecture reflects its association with the powerful forces of nature. Visitors can experience the shrine's serene atmosphere while being reminded of the awe-inspiring power of lightning.

日枝神社

日枝神社

Ibaraki

Dayo-jinja, located in the coastal town of Funakoshi in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Takamagahara no Okami, who is revered as the god of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as an important stopover for travelers and traders during the Edo period. Its distinctive design, featuring two main halls and a large torii gate, has been well-preserved over time.

八坂神社

八坂神社

Ibaraki

Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Eight Gates Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto kami of the same name, revered as a protector of the region's bridges and waterways. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a torii gate surrounded by cedar trees and a serene pond. Visitors can explore the shrine's historic buildings and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.

天満宮

天満宮

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Tenman-ji is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune, Benzaiten. The shrine's main hall dates back to 1706 and features a unique blend of traditional and Western architectural styles. Visitors can admire the beautiful garden and explore the museum showcasing the history and culture of the shrine.

久保平賀稲荷神社

久保平賀稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Kuroubahega Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and rice, located in the town of Tsukudani, Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine's name, Kuroubahega, roughly translates to 'a place where rice grows,' reflecting its historical significance as an agricultural center. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has played a crucial role in preserving traditional Japanese farming practices and mythology.

根木内稲荷神社

根木内稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Rooted in the rural landscapes of Ibaraki Prefecture,根木内稲荷神社 (Negi-no-uchi Inari Shrine) is a humble yet revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Ōkami, the Shinto god of rice and fertility. Dating back to the Heian period, this shrine has played a significant role in local agriculture and community life. Visitors can experience the authentic charm of rural Japan by walking through its serene grounds.