Japanese shrines

常祇稲荷神社

常祇稲荷神社

Gunma

常祇稲荷神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Sakada, Gunma Prefecture. The shrine's primary deity is Inari Okami, the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including its vermilion torii gate and wooden lanterns. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful gardens and seasonal festivals, such as the Spring Festival of the Sake-Sharing Deities.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Gunma

Located in the scenic town of Nikko, Gunma Prefecture,諏訪神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Tsukuyomi, the moon god and one of the seven celestial deities. As the primary shrine of the Tsukuyomi region, it has played a significant role in local culture and history.

浅間神社

浅間神社

Gunma

Located in the town of Ōta, Gunma Prefecture, Asamaniya Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of the mountain and forest. The shrine's name refers to its location on the eastern shore of Lake Asama, which is considered a sacred site due to its unique geological features. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine's gardens.

赤城神社

赤城神社

Gunma

Akakawa River, which flows through the town of Kusatsu in Gunma Prefecture, is said to be the place where the primary deity of Akakawa Jinja Shrine was enshrined. The shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn leaves and traditional Japanese architecture. It has been designated as a National Cultural Property since 1964.

白石の神送り

白石の神送り

Gunma

Located in the city of Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture, White Stone's God Sending is a small Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the local area. The shrine is situated on a hillside overlooking the town and features a unique architectural style that reflects its history as a sacred site for the production of sake. Visitors can experience the tranquility of nature and the spiritual energy of the shrine by taking in the stunning views from the observation deck.

笠山神社

笠山神社

Gunma

Toshio-ji Shrine, located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity of sake brewers and fertility, Toshio. The shrine's architecture reflects its humble beginnings as a mountain temple, with a simple thatched roof and wooden pillars. Visitors can explore the tranquil gardens and observe the unique 'pine forest' prayer area, where locals pray for good fortune and prosperity.

八幡宮

八幡宮

Gunma

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is a significant Shinto site that honors the legend of a warrior-saint who protected his lord and people from invaders. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical ties to the Kamakura period and is renowned for its vibrant vermilion torii gate, which serves as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.

白山神社

白山神社

Gunma

The Hakusan Shrine, located in the city of Tomioka, Gunma Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the White Mountain, also known as Hakusan. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese designs, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. According to local legend, the shrine was founded in 1608 by Lord Nagata Shinzo, who sought to establish a sacred site to ensure peace and prosperity for his family.

上戸日枝神社

上戸日枝神社

Gunma

Kumori-san, the Shinto deity enshrined at Kōmori-ji, is a local kami worshipped in Gunma Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Kumori's role as a guardian of rivers and forests. Visitors can participate in the annual 'Ryūgusō' festival, which features traditional dances and offerings to ensure bountiful water resources.

白髭神社

白髭神社

Gunma

Located in the prefecture of Gunma, Shirogami Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of hair and beauty. As a shrine that enshrines multiple kami, including Inari Okami and Shintoku Okami, it serves as an important location for blessings related to personal growth, prosperity, and spiritual well-being.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Gunma

Located in the city of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, 諏訪神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Enma and his wife Otohime. The shrine's history dates back to the Heian period, with its current structure built during the Edo period. It is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

宿粒八幡神社

宿粒八幡神社

Gunma

Located in the town of Karuizawa, Subaru Odaiba Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman Ōkami, the god of war and protector of travelers. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stopover on the Nakasendo Highway, which connected Tokyo with Kyoto during the Edo period. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional wooden buildings and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery.

曾木神社

曾木神社

Gunma

Located in the town of Daisen, Gunma Prefecture, Zao Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Zao, revered for its stunning autumn foliage and ancient traditions. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a Buddhist temple-turned-Shinto shrine, with wooden buildings dating back to the 16th century.

七ツ石 雷電神社

七ツ石 雷電神社

Gunma

Nikko's famous Seven-Headed Stone Shrine, Raijuinsha, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of thunder, Raijin, located in the heart of the Nikko National Park. The shrine's striking architecture and serene surroundings reflect its historical significance as a stopping point for the procession of the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 17th century.

大室神社

大室神社

Gunma

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Dairoji Shrine is a serene Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Yamatsumi no Okami, the Shitennō-ji and the god of rivers and lakes. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall featuring a distinctive tiled roof and a vermillion torii gate. Visitors can stroll through the tranquil grounds, exploring the beautifully manicured gardens and admiring the shrine's historic structures.

酒巻八幡神社

酒巻八幡神社

Gunma

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Sakehara-Hachiman Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to Hachiman Okami, the patron deity of warriors and samurai. The shrine's current structure dates back to the 17th century, although its roots stretch back to the early Heian period (794-1185 CE). As a nod to its military heritage, the shrine is surrounded by a scenic forest, symbolizing the protective power of Hachiman Okami.

十二所神社

十二所神社

Gunma

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Gunma, 十二所神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity Hachiman and several other kami associated with the Twelve Stations of Wayfarers. This historic shrine reflects the architectural styles characteristic of the Edo period, with its tiled roofs and imposing stone lanterns.

坂戸神社

坂戸神社

Gunma

Located in the town of Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture, Saitodō Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of agriculture, water, and prosperity. The shrine's name 'Saitodō' literally means 'at the fork in the road,' reflecting its strategic location at the intersection of three roads. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major travel hub during the Edo period.

稲荷神社

稲荷神社

Gunma

Indra Shrine, located in Gunma Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god Inari, patron deity of rice, fertility, and industry. This iconic shrine complex features multiple shrines, including the famous Tsukinowa Shrine within the grounds, each enshrined with unique deities associated with agriculture, prosperity, and protection. The shrine's distinctive vermilion torii gate has become a symbol of the region.

仮宿神社

仮宿神社

Gunma

Kaze no Fukurokuji Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto deity of wind and fertility, is a lesser-known yet fascinating site in Gunma Prefecture. Located at the foot of Mount Asahi, the shrine's architecture reflects the region's unique blend of traditional and natural elements. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape while exploring the shrine's serene gardens and tranquil atmosphere.

白鬚神社

白鬚神社

Gunma

The Shiro Mochi Shrine, located in the Japanese prefecture of Gunma, is a serene and tranquil oasis nestled amidst nature's splendor. Dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility, the shrine is renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.

白鬚神社

白鬚神社

Gunma

Located in the foothills of Mount Akakawa, white beard shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Kamo no Okune, a revered deity from ancient Japanese mythology. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a distinctive curved roof and ornate wooden gates.

伊奈利神社

伊奈利神社

Gunma

Iwatari Inari Shrine is a Shinto temple located in the city of Tomakomai, Hokkaido, dedicated to the deity Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates and is considered one of Japan's most beautiful shrines. It attracts millions of visitors each year.

我野神社

我野神社

Gunma

Myaojinsha is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Myao, Gunma Prefecture, known for its scenic views and traditional architecture. The shrine is dedicated to various kami, including those associated with agriculture, fertility, and prosperity. Visitors can explore the shrine's vermilion torii gate, wooden shrine buildings, and tranquil gardens, which offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city.