Japanese shrines

粕壁神明社

粕壁神明社

Ibaraki

粕壁神明社 is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its unique history and mythology connection to the rice god kami, Kamamori-san. The shrine's name roughly translates to 'grain wall deity shrine'. Founded during the Edo period (1603-1868), it has been an important site for locals seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest. Visitors can experience traditional Shinto rituals and observe the shrine's unique architectural style, which features a distinctive thatched roof.

碇神社

碇神社

Ibaraki

Coizumi Shrine, located in the Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity of love and poetry, Izumo Taisho, but also known as Izumikunina or Izuna-kami. The shrine is famous for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can see the impressive main hall and learn about the shrine's history at the nearby museum.

香取神社

香取神社

Ibaraki

香取神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the Kami Inari Okami and is famous for its beautiful garden and traditional architecture. The shrine's design reflects the Heian period's architectural style, with a main hall covered in a red tile roof. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which include several small shrines and a sacred pond.

主石神社 (常陸國式内小社)

主石神社 (常陸國式内小社)

Ibaraki

Located in the prefecture of Ibaraki, Mainstone Shrine (, Ōseki-jinsha) is a small shrine dedicated to a local deity revered by the ancient inhabitants of the region known as Ōsato Province. The shrine's architecture reflects the regional style of 'Inago-style' shrines, characterized by simple, rustic structures with curved eaves and ornate doors. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Mainstone Shrine has played an important role in preserving the traditional customs and rituals of the region.

鉾神社

鉾神社

Ibaraki

Zao Shrine, located in the foothills of Mt. Tsukuba in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the storm god Ōtori no Kami. The shrine's architecture reflects the region's natural beauty, with its traditional buildings and gardens designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

第六天神社

第六天神社

Ibaraki

Located in the prefecture of Ibaraki, the sixth Heaven Shrine (, daikaijinsha) is an ancient Shinto temple dedicated to the enshrined deities of heaven and the six directions. The shrine's architecture is a mix of traditional Japanese styles, with influences from Edo period designs. Despite being relatively unknown to tourists, visitors can learn about the rich history of this lesser-known Shinto shrine.

春日部稲荷神社

春日部稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Springpalace Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture is dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity, Inari Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a rectangular hall surrounded by a wooden torii gate and a serene garden. Visitors can pray for good luck, harvests, or business success at the thousands of vermilion torii gates lining the approach to the main shrine.

古河市 八幡神社

古河市 八幡神社

Ibaraki

Iwaseyama Shrine, located in the historic town of Iwaseyama in Hitachi Seaside, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and other deities associated with agriculture, fertility, and protection. The shrine's main hall was built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in the region. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy traditional Japanese architecture.

清瀧不動尊

清瀧不動尊

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Funabashi, Ibaraki Prefecture, 清瀧不動尊 Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of the forest and fertility, not動尊, also known as Futsunoo-san. This shrine is part of the 34 Futsunoo shrines that were built across Japan in honor of this deity. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1858 during the Edo period. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese architecture and tranquil gardens.

福寿稲荷神社

福寿稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachosesho, Fukushima Prefecture's neighboring Ibaraki was once home to the famous Tsukiyomi Shrine built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), now福寿稲荷神社 maintains its importance as a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Tsukiyomi, the moon. The shrine is situated on a hill and has a unique architecture with the main hall constructed in the Heian period style. The shrine's importance lies in its role as a protector of the region and a symbol of the city's history. Visitors can explore the surrounding hills and enjoy scenic views.

大宮大神

大宮大神

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Hitachi Seacoast, Big Shrine of Ōdaimyō is one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines dedicated to the god of rice and agriculture, Ōdaimyō. The shrine complex is renowned for its stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and beautiful torii gates. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and historical significance by exploring the museum, shrine grounds, and traditional festivals.

子神社

子神社

Ibaraki

Sub Kami Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture is a Shinto temple dedicated to the lesser kami, Subakami. The shrine is located near the Tsuruga River and is said to offer blessings for farming and agriculture. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural surroundings, it's an ideal place for nature lovers and those seeking spiritual rejuvenation.

大鷲神社

大鷲神社

Ibaraki

Tategosho Shrine, located in the town of Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to Okami-no-miya-gami, a Shinto deity associated with cattle and agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a center for local farming communities. As one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki, Tategosho Shrine has maintained many traditional elements, including its distinctive torii gate.

願掛け地蔵

願掛け地蔵

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Kamakura, 願掛け地蔵 Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of treasure and prosperity, Kanezuki. The shrine's name translates to 'place of offerings' or 'treasure offering place'. Founded in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the shrine has maintained its traditional architecture and is known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

神明神社

神明神社

Ibaraki

The Godai Shrine, located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the patron deity of rice and fertility. The shrine is known for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Shinto elements with modern design. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens, including a famous bamboo forest, and participate in various festivals throughout the year. One notable festival is the Hitachi Matsuri, which honors the founding of the Godai Shrine and features traditional music, dance, and food.

丸山神社

丸山神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Katsuragawa, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Marumya Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a scenic pond and walking paths.

香取神社

香取神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Takegahara Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the water god and deity of fertility, Takegami. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as an ancient oasis town along the Kanto plain, with traditional Japanese-style buildings dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can experience the tranquility of this sacred site by strolling through the lush gardens and surrounding rice fields.

愛宕神社

愛宕神社

Ibaraki

愛宕神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to Amaterasu Ōmikami, the Shinto sun goddess and one of the most important deities in Japanese mythology. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful architecture and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the serene gardens, walk along the scenic riverside path, and enjoy traditional snacks and refreshments available at the shrine's shops.

香取神社

香取神社

Ibaraki

Kazetake Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Nihora, Ibaraki Prefecture, and is dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture, with some structures dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can see the remains of an old sake brewery on the grounds, which has been converted into a museum.

鶴峯八幡宮

鶴峯八幡宮

Ibaraki

Perched on a hill overlooking the coastal town of Ota, Shirofugi Hachiman-gu Shrine is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ibaraki Prefecture. Built during the Edo period (1603-1867), its architecture reflects the traditional Japanese design of the time with a large gate and wooden torii. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the Shinto god of war, patron deity of samurai. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has played a significant role in the region's history, serving as a symbol of the town's prosperity and a site for festivals celebrating the arrival of spring and the autumn harvest.

秋葉神社

秋葉神社

Ibaraki

Autumn Leaves Shrine, a serene Shinto oasis in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, Inari Okami. The shrine's tranquil gardens and vibrant autumn foliage make it a must-visit destination during the fall season. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a wooden torii gate and intricately carved stone lanterns.

日枝神社

日枝神社

Ibaraki

Dayōjinsha is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nikkō, Ibaraki Prefecture, dedicated to Dayū Ō no Okami, a local deity associated with the sea and fishing. The shrine's architecture reflects the Edo period style, characterized by a traditional Japanese-style gatehouse and a simple yet elegant main hall. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the surrounding nature, with lush greenery and scenic views of nearby Nikkō National Park.

愛宕神社

愛宕神社

Ibaraki

Love and Prosperity Shrine, located in the prefecture of Ibaraki, is dedicated to the Shinto god of love and fertility, Amaterasu, as well as Hachiman, the god of war and messenger. The shrine's architecture blends traditional Japanese styles with modern elements, reflecting its long history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Visitors can admire the intricate wooden structures and beautiful gardens, which serve as a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

香取大明神

香取大明神

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Sakura, Ibaraki Prefecture, Takeuchi Taishōjin Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the god of the rice fields and prosperity. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the main hall, which features intricate carvings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.