Japanese shrines

八幡神社

八幡神社

Ibaraki

The Eightfold Shrine, a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the god of wisdom and war, Otori-Okami, is nestled in the picturesque town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture. Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this shrine has served as a revered site for locals seeking protection and guidance. With its unique architectural style, reflecting the Kamakura era influence, the shrine boasts a striking vermillion torii gate adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures.

国都神神社

国都神神社

Ibaraki

Located in the historic city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, nation-hall Shinto shrine Nation-Hall Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to the gods of the nation. The shrine was built in 1781 during the Edo period and features a traditional style with a main hall and several smaller shrines. The shrine's primary deity is the god of war, Hachiman, and it enshrines multiple kami, including those associated with fertility, prosperity, and good fortune.

楠木神社

楠木神社

Ibaraki

Narita Castle's castle ruins are said to be the remains of Katsuura Castle, which was destroyed during the Sengoku period in the late 16th century. The current castle is a reconstruction built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early 17th century as part of his efforts to consolidate power and establish a unified Japan. The castle's unique blend of traditional Japanese architecture and Western-style fortifications reflects its history as a strategic location at the intersection of two continents.

鹿島神社

鹿島神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, 鹿島神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name, revered as the god of forests, mountains, and wildlife. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stopover for travelers on the ancient Nakasendō route.

神明神社

神明神社

Ibaraki

The Godaiden Shrine, located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Okami, the Shinto sun goddess and patron deity of agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Japanese-style entrance gate and a wooden torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which include several ponds and walking paths, providing a serene atmosphere for contemplation and prayer.

豊姫稲荷神社

豊姫稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Tohime-hime Inari Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of fertility and agriculture. The shrine is situated on the coast of the Sea of Japan, near the town of Nihonmatsu, and is said to be an important stopover for pilgrims traveling between the eastern provinces and the capital city of Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with a wooden torii gate and traditional Japanese-style buildings. Tohime-hime Inari Shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and scenic views of the surrounding ocean.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Indra Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and was originally dedicated to Ryujin, the Shinto god of the sea. Over time, it has become enshrined to Inari Okami, the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects its history, with a complex of buildings dating back to the 7th century. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum, which houses artifacts and treasures related to the shrine's history. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional crafts, including the making of rice paper lanterns.

権現様・あんば様

権現様・あんば様

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Ryōsenmae Shrine is dedicated to the god of war and fertility, Ryūjin and Amaterasu, as well as the god of agriculture, Susanoo. The shrine's name, Ryōsenmae, translates to 'the place where Ryūjin appears.' Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a large wooden pillar dedicated to Ryūjin. The surrounding area is also home to several smaller shrines and temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ibaraki.

正一位稲荷大明神

正一位稲荷大明神

Ibaraki

Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, the Jōichiji Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, Inari Okami. As one of Japan's most famous Inari shrines, it attracts millions of visitors each year. The shrine complex spans over 30 acres, featuring numerous small shrines and gates, known as 'torii,' which are believed to ward off evil spirits. Visitors can participate in the shrine's annual spring festival, where they can pray for good harvests and fertility.

浜守稲荷神社

浜守稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Hamamatsu Shrine, located in the coastal town of Kamihama, Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity of the sea and prosperity, Mikoto Okami. As a scenic spot with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the shrine attracts tourists and locals alike seeking blessings for safe passage and good fortune.

大杉神社

大杉神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Nihari, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ōsuganomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michiie, a famous samurai from the Edo period. The shrine's main hall was built during the Kamakura period and its torii gate dates back to the Heian period.

八幡神社

八幡神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is one of Japan's most ancient Shinto shrines, dating back to the 8th century. Dedicated to the god of good luck and prosperity, the shrine's primary deity, Fujin (the god of wind), is often revered alongside his brother Raijin (god of lightning). The site was originally believed to be a sacred spot where the wind from Mount Iwaki would blow through, bringing fertility to the surrounding fields. Today, Eight Horseshoe Shrine remains an important cultural and spiritual hub in northern Japan.

一ノ矢八坂神社

一ノ矢八坂神社

Ibaraki

One-no-saka Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to the god of war and justice, Hachiman. The shrine's history dates back to the Nara period, with records indicating it was founded during the reign of Emperor Saga (c. 802-810 CE). The shrine complex features a traditional Japanese garden and a wooden torii gate. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and explore the surrounding forest, which is said to be the site where Hachiman appeared to a local farmer.

神塚神社

神塚神社

Ibaraki

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu, located in the town of Tsukubamino, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hachiman, believed to be the patron kami of scholars and warriors. The shrine's main hall was rebuilt after World War II and features a distinctive wooden architecture style characteristic of the Edo period. Visitors can explore the surrounding forest, which is said to be inhabited by the spirits of the Tsukubamino village's ancestors.

八坂神社・冨士浅間神社

八坂神社・冨士浅間神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic coastal town of Shirako, Ibaraki Prefecture, Fusimi Takasago Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the deities of Mt. Takasago and the surrounding area. As one of the most iconic shrines in Ibaraki, it offers a tranquil escape from urban life while showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and natural beauty.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Kashima Jingu Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami and the god Susanoo no Mikoto. Founded in 708 CE during the Nara period, it is considered a significant example of Heian-era architecture and is known for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and stunning gardens.

吉田神社

吉田神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture,吉田神社 (Giyuda Shrine) is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of sake and rice, believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to its adherents. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a tranquil garden and an ornate torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds and participate in traditional festivals and ceremonies.

鹿島神社

鹿島神社

Ibaraki

Located in the coastal town of Ibaraki,鹿島神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name, often associated with fertility and prosperity. The shrine's main hall, Haiden, features a distinctive black lacquer exterior and is adorned with intricate wooden carvings. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, which include a large cedar tree believed to be the shrine's original tree. A short walk from the shrine lies the town of Katori, famous for its beautiful coastline and historic castles.

加波山神社

加波山神社

Ibaraki

Located in the beautiful Addaiko Park, Addaiko Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Addaiko River and the surrounding mountains. Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), it has undergone various renovations throughout its history. As one of Ibaraki's oldest shrines, it boasts an impressive collection of traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.

鹿島神社

鹿島神社

Ibaraki

Kasimaya Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto deity Susanoo, is situated in the picturesque town of Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major pilgrimage site during the Edo period. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Kasimaya Shrine showcases the unique blend of traditional and modern elements, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.

鷲の宮稲荷神社

鷲の宮稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the prefecture of Ibaraki, 鷲の宮稲荷神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari Okami, patron deity of rice and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble rice granary, with wooden buildings that date back to the Edo period.

鉾神社

鉾神社

Ibaraki

Ōharu Shrine, dedicated to Ōharu-no- Kami, is a small Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Japanese temples, with a wooden torii gate and a tiled roof. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature several shrines and historic structures.

水神宮・八坂神社

水神宮・八坂神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Kamakura, Water God Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of water and storms, Ryujin. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with a distinctive vermilion torii gate and a wooden vermillion gate known as 'furui-mono'. Its Kami includes not just Ryujin but also Fujin, the wind god, as well as Suisen, the god of water plants, among others. Water God Shrine is one of Japan's most famous shrines and has been designated a National Cultural Treasure by the Japanese government.

香取神社

香取神社

Ibaraki

Katsuragi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Katsuragawa, Ibaraki Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami Mikasago no Kami, the shrine plays an important role in local traditions and festivals. Visitors can explore the shrine's historic architecture and participate in rituals and ceremonies. The shrine is also known for its beautiful gardens and scenic views.