Shrines & temples

Japanese shrines

OSM directory

Explore Shinto shrines mapped from OpenStreetMap — filter by prefecture, city, or denomination. For curated travel listings, see featured landmark shrines below.

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1,794 shrines

小汐井水天宮

Shiga

小汐井水天宮, located in Shiga Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of water and fishing. The shrine's name translates to 'Tenshukai at Sumiyoshizaka', reflecting its proximity to the Sumiyoshizaka river. Dedicated to the kami Hachiman Okami, it serves as a place for locals to pray for abundant fish stocks and favorable ocean conditions. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Shiga-style, with a vermilion torii gate and wooden buildings adorned with rice paper windows.

恵美須神社

Shiga

Ebi-no-Suse-san Shrine, located in the city of Aishimagun, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine is dedicated to Ebi no Suse-hime, a legendary woman who was said to have been born in 800 and died at the age of 17. According to myth, she was an exceptional beauty and a fierce warrior, and her spirit is believed to reside in the shrine.

塩竈神社

Shiga

Located in the town of Katsuyama, Shiga Prefecture,塩竈神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of salt and fishing. The shrine's name, '塩竈', refers to the use of salt as an essential component in Japanese cooking and fishing practices. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which include a large torii gate and several smaller shrines, each honoring different aspects of salt production and fishing.

若一王子神社・熊野神社

Shiga

Located in the town of Gokayama, Shiga Prefecture, ifitai Wangshi-jinsha (若一王子神社・熊野神社) is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the deities Ifitai Wangshi and Kumonosato. The shrine complex features a unique architectural style blending traditional Japanese and Chinese elements, reflecting its historical significance as a route for travelers on the ancient Nakasendo highway. Despite being largely abandoned during World War II, the shrine has been restored and continues to attract visitors seeking a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

豊受大神宮・天照大神宮

Shiga

The Toyosaka Taiheitaisha and Toyosaka Taiheitaishu shrines are located in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture. The Toyosaka Taiheitaishu shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami (also known as Toyosaka Taiheitaishu), who was enshrined in 1296 during the Kamakura period. The Toyosaka Taiheitaisha shrine is dedicated to the storm god Susanoo-no-kami, who was also enshrined in 1296. These shrines were built on the site of a former Buddhist temple and are notable for their unique architecture and beautiful gardens.

出雲大社

Shiga

Outta-Iwa-no-miya is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu in Outa, a village in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. The shrine complex dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) and features traditional Japanese architecture with a wooden torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's inner courtyard, adorned with beautiful plum blossoms during spring, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Biwa.

建部神社

Shiga

建部神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Shiga Prefecture, dedicated to the worship of Builda no Kami, the kami of the imperial residence and government. The shrine is situated near the ruins of Higashiyama Castle, which was once the seat of power for the Mikado. Over time, the shrine has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating back to the Heian period. The shrine's architecture reflects its history, featuring a traditional Japanese design with a rectangular main hall and a smaller subsidiary hall.

三之宮神社

Shiga

Located in the city of Omiya, Omiwa Shrine is dedicated to the kami Amaterasu, as well as other deities associated with rice, prosperity, and the founding of the city. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, featuring a traditional Japanese-style wooden hall (haiden) and a five-story pagoda (tōba). Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine's gardens and enjoy traditional festivals, including the Omiwa Shrine Festival in April.

尚徳諏訪神社

Shiga

Located in the town of Nagaizumi, Shiga Prefecture, this Shinto shrine is dedicated to the deity Inari Okami and is famous for its beautiful garden and traditional architecture. The shrine is said to have been established in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in the region.

道祖神社

Shiga

Located in the city of Hikone, Omi-dera Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune, Shizuka-hime no Kami. This shrine was originally built as a temple during the Heian period but later converted to a Shinto shrine in 1869. The shrine's main hall features a unique thatched roof and beautiful gardens along the Katsura River.

春崎稲荷社

Shiga

The Springzaki Inari Shrine in Shiga Prefecture is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Inari, the kami of fertility, agriculture, and prosperity. The shrine's name 'Springzaki' translates to 'spring valley' or 'blossoming valley', likely referencing the vibrant cherry blossoms that bloom in the surrounding area during spring. Visitors can explore the shrine's picturesque grounds, adorned with vermilion torii gates and intricately designed wooden structures, which are said to be inspired by traditional Heian-period architecture.

三玉稲荷社

Shiga

三玉稲荷社 is a small Shinto shrine located in the town of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the god of agriculture and prosperity, Inari Okami, as well as the three sacred jewels or 'sai' that are said to be hidden within its grounds. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which date back to the 17th century. Despite its modest size, the shrine is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

老松社

Shiga

The Old Oak Shrine, located in Shiga Prefecture, is a historic Shinto site that honors the revered kami of the forest and its inhabitants. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional styles of Heian period Japan, with a sturdy oak torii gate and wooden shrine buildings. Visitors can walk through the serene forest surroundings, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and admiring the beauty of nature. The shrine is also known for its connection to the mythology of the Old Man of the Woods, a revered figure said to possess great wisdom.

火御子社

Shiga

Located in the heart of Shiga Prefecture, Ryūgū-jinja Shrine is a tranquil oasis nestled beside Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. The shrine is dedicated to the mythological dragon god, Ryūgū, and its beautiful architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style of the Heian period. Visitors can admire the shrine's elegant stone lanterns, adorned with dragons and other mythical creatures, which are said to ward off evil spirits.

白大夫

Shiga

Located in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Shrine Hachimantai is dedicated to the Shinto god of war and the ocean, Hachiman. As a key site for the Japanese pilgrims known as 'hinomaki,' this shrine was believed to have healing properties, and its fame helped spread the samurai class throughout Japan. Visitors can still see the remains of the old temple that once stood here, now replaced by an even larger structure dedicated to Hachiman's legacy.

福部社

Shiga

福部社 is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Echizen, Shiga Prefecture, dedicated to the kami Enma Daiō. The shrine is situated near the coast and features a distinctive architecture reflecting its coastal location. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine's gardens and grounds.

楠赤手拭稲荷大明神

Shiga

Located in the city of Echizen, Shiga Prefecture, 栠赤手拭稲荷大明神 (Sugi Akazuhibi Dai-meigami) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Sugi no Mikoto, the legendary patron deity of the Sogun (Shogun) family. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a main hall (honden) built in 1871 using materials from the destroyed temple on the site. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a sacred tunnel where samurai once performed ritual purification rituals.

樹下宮

Shiga

Located in Shiga Prefecture, Tree Shrine (Katsuragi no Miyaji) is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines. Dating back to the 8th century, it is believed to be a remnant of the ancient Ise-Shima region's ceremonial center. The shrine complex features a unique tree with its roots growing out from under the main shrine, said to be a manifestation of the 'Tree God' (katsuragi no kami) that resides within.

東本宮

Shiga

Located in the heart of Shiga Prefecture, Tousen-gu Shrine, also known as eastern palace, is one of Japan's most historic and majestic shrines, dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, considered the first emperor of Japan. This impressive structure has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires and wars, but its current version dates back to 1718. The shrine complex features a unique five-story pagoda, which symbolizes the five virtues of Shintoism: respect, loyalty, sincerity, righteousness, and benevolence.

白山宮

Shiga

Located in the city of Biwako, Shiga Prefecture, White Mountain Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of Mount Kurama, a sacred site known for its spiritual energy and scenic beauty. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a square torii gate and a wooden main hall. Visitors can explore the surrounding forest, which is said to be inhabited by the mountain kami.

宇佐宮

Shiga

Located in the city of Echizen, Fukui Prefecture is sometimes confused with another shrine, but it was originally built at the site where the famous Japanese poet Masaoka Shiki would often visit and draw inspiration from. This shrine has strong connections to the region's folklore, including a legend about its founder receiving divine power from the 7th-century deity Amaterasu Omikami.

西本宮

Shiga

The Sennyu-ji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, and is dedicated to the deity of water, Ryujin. It is one of Japan's most famous shrines and attracts millions of visitors each year. The shrine is known for its beautiful garden and traditional architecture.

日吉大社

Shiga

Located in the city of Nagahama, Dayotsu Grand Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Oinagikami, a powerful and benevolent deity believed to protect travelers and fishermen. The shrine's main hall was built during the Edo period, with some elements dating back to the Heian era. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

旦椋神社

Shiga

The Asahiyama Shrine, located in the Shiga Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Inari Okami, known as Asahiyama Inari. This shrine is famous for its unique torii gate carved into the mountain, and it's said that on New Year's Eve, the gate is illuminated with lanterns. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a long history dating back to 711 AD. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several temples and shrines dedicated to other deities.