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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Denomination

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861 shrines

城川神社

Niigata

Castle Town Shrine, located in the heart of Niigata's castle town, is dedicated to the spirits of the city's founders and the castle's former residents. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Japanese-style main hall and a unique 'castle tower' that offers stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum to learn more about the history of Niigata Castle and the city's role in Japan's Sengoku period.

宇都宮神社

Niigata

Utsunomiya Shrine, located in Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has a rich history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine's architecture reflects its traditional style, with a main hall, shrine halls, and several smaller shrines. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a museum showcasing local art and artifacts.

宇佐八幡宮

Niigata

Uesugi Kyohei, the daimyo of the Uesugi clan, built the original Eight-Horned Shrine (Hachimantai) in 1547 to enshrine Hachiman-gu, the patron deity of the Uesugi clan. Over time, it was rebuilt and relocated several times due to natural disasters and conflicts, finally settling at its current location in Niigata Prefecture. Today, the shrine is still revered for its historic significance and spiritual power.

郡殿の池　弁財天の鳥居

Niigata

Located in the heart of Niigata, Gunkōden no Ike Abenobu-tori is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, revered as the patron of art, music, and literature. The shrine's name, which translates to 'pool hall of Gunkō' and 'bird tower of Abeno,' reflects its unique architectural features, including an artificial pond and a distinctive bird-shaped torii gate. Built in 1855 during the Edo period, the shrine has undergone several renovations while maintaining its traditional charm.

俣倉神社

Niigata

The Aikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture. Dedicated to the worship of the kami Amaterasu, it is one of Japan's oldest shrines and has been recognized as a national treasure since 1952. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a Heian period temple, with a characteristic hipped roof and wooden columns. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and take part in various festivals throughout the year.

十二社

Niigata

The twelve-shrines shrine in Niigata Prefecture is dedicated to the worship of twelve kami, including Ryujin and Benzaiten. The shrine is a prime example of Edo-period temple architecture, with its simple yet elegant design reflecting the harmony between nature and human life. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens and admire the beautiful torii gate.

中山神社

Niigata

Located in the heart of Niigata Prefecture, Middle Mountain Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Myoko and the surrounding region. The shrine's architecture reflects its age, with traditional Japanese-style buildings and a serene garden. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several small shrines and monuments dedicated to various regional deities.

羽黒神社

Niigata

The Hakuji Shrine, located in Niigata Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. Its architecture reflects the traditional Heian period style, with a distinctive tile-roofed hall dedicated to the primary deity, Ryujin. The shrine's name, 'Hakuji,' roughly translates to 'White Tiger,' symbolizing protection and strength. Visitors can explore the surrounding rice fields and experience the serene atmosphere of rural Japan.

熊野神社

Niigata

Kamakura-period shrine dedicated to Myojin, a kami associated with the sea and prosperity, located on the coast of Niigata Prefecture. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

中島稲荷神社

Niigata

Located on a small island in Lake Suwa, middle island Shinto shrine (中島稲荷神社) is a historic and scenic destination that showcases the unique charm of Japanese Shinto culture. The shrine's primary deity, Otori-no-Okami, is revered for its role as a kami of agriculture and prosperity. Visitors can explore the shrine's rustic wooden buildings, tranquil gardens, and ancient trees, which are said to have healing properties.

十二神社

Niigata

The Twelve Shrine, a Shinto shrine in Niigata Prefecture, is dedicated to the twelve gods of the Japanese pantheon known as the Kami of Mount Kosaka. The shrine is situated at the foot of Mount Kosaka, which is said to be the home of the twelve Kami. According to legend, the twelve Kami were once twelve handsome and strong youths who lived on Mount Kosaka. They were tasked with serving as guardians of the mountain and its surroundings. Visitors can see a beautiful cherry blossom tree, said to have been planted by one of the twelve Kami, which blooms annually in spring.

八海神社

Niigata

Located on the coast of Niigata Prefecture, Eight Seas Shinto Shrine is dedicated to the sea deities of Japanese mythology. The shrine's name reflects its proximity to the ocean and its role in worshiping the kami associated with the seas. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene grounds, which offer stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

両山神社

Niigata

Located in the mountains of Niigata, Ryōzan Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Ryūjin, who is revered as the patron deity of the sea and the ruler of the underwater kingdom of Ryūgū. The shrine's architecture reflects its mountainous surroundings, with a unique blend of traditional Japanese styles. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful grounds, which include a scenic walking path and a small pond.

稲荷神社

Niigata

Located in the heart of Niigata, Iseya Inari Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the kami of rice, fertility, and prosperity. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has been an important center for agriculture and commerce in the region for centuries. The shrine's stunning architecture, featuring intricately carved wooden gates and a majestic torii gate, reflect its rich history and cultural significance.

白山神社

Niigata

Located in the scenic city of Agematsu, Shirakami-Sanchi National Park's sacred site White Mountain Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Haku and Mount Aso. The shrine is nestled within a beautiful forest and its unique architecture reflects its connection with nature.

宮本神社

Niigata

宮本神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of rice and prosperity. The shrine's main hall is adorned with traditional tiled roofs and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can experience the tranquility of nature while paying respects to the kami.

八幡宮

Niigata

Located in the city of Kariya, Niigata Prefecture,八幡宮 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fortune and prosperity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine's current structure dates back to the 17th century, although its history stretches further back to the Heian period. Its architecture reflects a mix of traditional and modern elements, with a distinctive five-story pagoda and beautiful gardens.

十二社

Niigata

Twelve Shrines Shrine in Niigata Prefecture is one of Japan's most unique and fascinating Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the twelve gods of the Japanese pantheon, it is a rare example of a shrine that enshrines multiple kami, rather than focusing on a single deity. The complex was built during the Edo period, with many of its buildings constructed in the traditional Niigata style.

白山神社

Niigata

Located in the heart of Japan's rugged mountainous region, White Mountain Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity Bonten, the god of agriculture and fertility. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens, which feature native Japanese plants and a beautiful pond. The shrine is also famous for its traditional architecture, with a distinctive red torii gate and a wooden hall adorned with intricate carvings. At night, the shrine takes on an ethereal quality as it is illuminated by soft lanterns.

枯木神社

Niigata

In the mountains of Niigata Prefecture lies Kuroki Shrine, a Shinto site dedicated to the forest spirit, Ryujin, and the god of agriculture, Inari Okami. The shrine is notable for its beautiful architecture, which features a unique blend of traditional Japanese styles. Built in 1642, the current wooden structure dates back to the Edo period. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several historic buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens.

天神社

Niigata

Located in the city of Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, Tenjin-gu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning and culture, Sugawara no Michizane, also known as Tenjin. The shrine was built in 1877, but its history dates back to the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, dedicated to the worship of Sugawara no Michizane, who was instrumental in introducing Chinese culture to Japan.

田尻物部神社

Niigata

Tadiri Mon'ei Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kariya, Niigata Prefecture, dedicated to the deity of fishing and maritime safety. The shrine's architecture reflects the importance of the sea in the local economy, with a unique wooden structure designed to resemble a sailboat. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature a beautiful garden and a tranquil pond.

塩栄神社

Niigata

Shichiroku Shrine in Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture is dedicated to the Shinto deity Shicho, who protects fishermen and brings good fortune to those who live by the sea. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location with a unique design featuring wooden pillars supporting the roof. Locals attribute the shrine's prosperity to the legend of a fisherman who returned home safely after years at sea.

若宮神社

Niigata

Located in the town of Sanmin, Niigata Prefecture, Ifuki Shrine (若宮神社) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the spirit of the Japanese imperial family and the god of learning. The shrine's name, 'Ifuki,' roughly translates to 'long life' or 'prosperity.' While not as well-known as some other shrines in Japan, Ifuki Shrine remains an important cultural and historical site in the region.