Japanese shrines

穴守稲荷神社

穴守稲荷神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Akematsu Inari Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the god of rice and fertility. The shrine's stunning architecture and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history.

稲神社

稲神社

Nagano

The稲神社, located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of rice and agriculture. The shrine's history dates back to the Edo period, with its current structure rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The site itself is believed to be an ancient sacred place, with archaeological evidence suggesting human habitation dating back to the Jomon period.

船山神社

船山神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Ship Mountain Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Hashiba. The shrine is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, which features a distinctive shinden-zukuri style with a large vermillion torii gate.

中村神社

中村神社

Nagano

中村神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Tomida, Nagano Prefecture. It is known for its historic and cultural significance as a site of worship for the local community. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style with a large torii gate and a main hall made of wooden structures. The surrounding area features various shrines and temples dedicated to different deities.

黒彦神社

黒彦神社

Nagano

The Black God Shrine in Nagano Prefecture is dedicated to Hikoboshi, a kami revered as the god of the Milky Way and the bridge that connects the world of the living with the afterlife. The shrine is known for its beautiful autumn foliage and ancient architecture, showcasing traditional Japanese design elements such as the tiled roof and vermillion gates. Visitors can experience the shrine's rustic charm by strolling through its serene gardens.

荷利社

荷利社

Nagano

Haruli Jya is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, dedicated to the kami of good fortune and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style of hinoki-zukuri, with a wooden torii gate and a tiled roof. Its history dates back to the Edo period, with records showing its existence since 1654.

柳沢神社

柳沢神社

Nagano

The Suzawa Shrine in Nagano Prefecture is dedicated to the Shinto deity, Okuninushi, who is revered as a god of agriculture and fertility. Located near the confluence of the Suzawa River and its tributary, the Oi River, the shrine's site was chosen for its natural abundance and fertility. The shrine's architectural style reflects the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and features a traditional Japanese-style hall with a tiled roof.

大宮神社

大宮神社

Nagano

Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano,大宮神社 is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. The shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami and is part of the famous Nikkō Tōshō-gū, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The shrine complex features traditional Japanese architecture, including a five-story pagoda and a large torii gate, which are believed to symbolize the connection between heaven and earth.

金比羅神社

金比羅神社

Nagano

Located in the city of Kami, Nagano Prefecture, Kinryu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Kinryu, the god of mines and copper. The shrine is famous for its unique architecture and historic significance as a major center of copper mining during the Edo period.

道祖神社

道祖神社

Nagano

This shrine in Nagano Prefecture is dedicated to Dōsojin, a Shinto deity believed to protect the household from evil spirits and misfortune. The shrine's architecture is characteristic of traditional Japanese temples, with a tiled roof and sliding doors. Visitors can walk through the forest surrounding the shrine, which is said to be inhabited by the kami.

十二神社

十二神社

Nagano

The Twelve Shrine (Jūni-gū) in Nagano Prefecture is one of Japan's most iconic and historic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the Twelve Kami, or deities, the shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese mythology and culture. The complex was originally built during the Edo period and has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and vibrant festivals that take place throughout the year.

治田神社 上の宮

治田神社 上の宮

Nagano

Shiraida-jinja, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deities believed to protect travelers and locals alike. The shrine is situated at an altitude of over 1,000 meters above sea level and boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can experience the unique cultural heritage of this highland shrine by participating in traditional festivals and ceremonies, such as the Shiraida Matsuri, which takes place in September. Additionally, the shrine's beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.

八王子宮

八王子宮

Nagano

The Eight Kings' Shrine, located in the city of Tenryu, Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan's most revered Shinto shrines dedicated to the enshrined deities known as the 'Eight Immortals'. These deities, believed to possess extraordinary powers and wisdom, are considered protectors of the local community. The shrine's architecture reflects its rich history, with a striking example being the five-story pagoda that dates back to the 17th century.

稲荷社

稲荷社

Nagano

The 稲荷社, also known as the Inari Shrine, is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the god Inari Okami, who presides over rice and fertility. Located in Nagano Prefecture, this shrine is renowned for its vibrant orange torii gates that line the path leading to the main hall. The shrine is also known for its unique worship style, where devotees tie red strings around the pillars to symbolize their wishes.

金刃比羅社

金刃比羅社

Nagano

Gold Sword Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese Alps, dedicated to Okunitake, a deity believed to protect travelers and warriors. The shrine is known for its unique gold sword-shaped structure, which symbolizes strength and bravery. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum, which features exhibits on the history of Nagano Province and the life of Okunitake.

天神社

天神社

Nagano

The Tenjin Shrine in Nagano Prefecture is dedicated to the Shinto god Susanoo, a storm god and brother of Amaterasu, the sun goddess. This shrine is one of the oldest and most revered in Japan, with records dating back to 747 CE. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, featuring a traditional Japanese-style main hall and a beautiful garden. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and rich history of this sacred site.

蚕神社

蚕神社

Nagano

Cuckoo God Shrine, located in the town of Murai in Nagano Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of spring and the cuckoo bird. According to local legend, the shrine's primary deity, the Cuckoo Bird God (Tsukiyama no Kamado), was said to have emerged from a mountain rock after being struck by lightning. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional Japanese gardens and wooden buildings.

宇佐八幡社

宇佐八幡社

Nagano

Uesugi-no-Miya Hachiman Shrine, located in Nagano Prefecture, is dedicated to the deity of war and protector of the Uesugi clan. The shrine's name 'Yatsugahara-hachimangū' translates to 'The Eight Horses of Yatsugahara', referring to a legendary battle where the Uesugi clan's eight horses were said to have turned against their enemies, defeating them in battle. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, including a unique vermillion gate adorned with carved wooden horses.

水神宮

水神宮

Nagano

Water God Shrine, located in the scenic town of Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of water, Ryujin, and his wife, Urashima Taro's love interest, Otohime. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

東山神社

東山神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, East Mountain Shrine is a serene Shinto sanctuary nestled among ancient cedars and towering mountains. Dedicated to the kami of Mount Asama, the shrine offers stunning views and tranquility amidst nature's splendor.

矢代神社

矢代神社

Nagano

Located in the scenic Nakasendo region of Nagano, Matsumoto-jinja Shrine is a prominent Shinto site dedicated to Tamayura-gami, a kami believed to be associated with agriculture and fertility. The shrine's current structure dates back to the 17th century, although its roots trace back to the 8th century. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a striking golden torii gate, as well as several smaller shrines and gardens.

治田神社

治田神社

Nagano

Located in the heart of Japan's mountainous region, 治田神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Ōyōtō no Okami, the kami of agriculture and fertility. This beautiful shrine is situated at the foot of Mount Kiso, amidst lush forests and rolling hills. Built in 1647 during the Edo period, the shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style with its rectangular main hall and tiled roofs.

北野天満宮

北野天満宮

Nagano

Located in the Japanese Alps, Northen Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to Tsukuyomi, the god of the moon. Dedicated to agriculture and fertility, the shrine's primary kami are Okuninushi and Inari, both revered for their role in ensuring bountiful harvests. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a tiled roof and vermilion walls. Originally built in 1602 during the Edo period, it has undergone several restorations to maintain its cultural significance. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine by participating in the traditional tea ceremony.

招魂殿

招魂殿

Nagano

招魂殿, located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Yatagarasu, known as 'Fukushima-jinbo' or 'Fusen', which roughly translates to 'the great god who possesses both power and beauty'. As one of Japan's most powerful and revered deities, it is said that the god controls the fortunes of the region and governs the balance between light and darkness. This temple is situated in a scenic area surrounded by a peaceful forest, making it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation and connection with nature.