Japanese shrines

三島神社

三島神社

Kochi

出雲大社浜村教会

出雲大社浜村教会

Tottori

Located in the Seto Inland Sea region of Japan, Outōdaisha Hamamura Kirishitankyoku is a unique Shinto shrine that blends traditional Japanese architecture with Christian influences. Built by Japanese Christians during the late 19th century, this shrine reflects the cultural exchange and syncretism that occurred during this period. The shrine's design combines elements of Japanese pagoda-style buildings with Western-style church structures.

水天宮

水天宮

Kanagawa

Located in the heart of Kanagawa Prefecture, Suiden Temple is a serene Shinto oasis that honors the revered deity of water and heaven, Suijin, as well as various other kami associated with the region. The temple's architecture reflects its connection to the natural world, featuring traditional wooden structures adorned with vibrant greenery. Visitors can walk through the peaceful gardens, explore the tranquil grounds, and experience the essence of Shinto spirituality.

高津神社

高津神社

Tokushima

Highatsu Shrine, located in Tokushima Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine's history dates back to the 7th century, during the Asuka period, and is believed to have been founded by Emperor Seiwa. Highatsu Shrine is notable for its unique torii gate, which is said to be one of the oldest in Japan. Visitors can experience the shrine's tranquil atmosphere and observe traditional Shinto rituals.

波打八幡神社

波打八幡神社

Kagawa

Located in the city of Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture,波打八幡神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of good fortune and prosperity. The shrine's name, 'Hachiman,' which translates to 'Eight-Faced Hachiman,' refers to the mythological god of war who was revered for his eight faces. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, including the iconic torii gate.

事代主神社

事代主神社

Hyogo

Located in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, the Itadasama Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Kami of Trade and Prosperity. The shrine's primary deity is Itasumakami, who is revered as the patron of merchants, sailors, and travelers. Visitors can admire the beautiful cherry blossom trees surrounding the main hall and purchase traditional souvenirs such as sake bottles with ittōsai designs.

八坂神社

八坂神社

Hyogo

Located in the city of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Eighteen Shrine (Yakushi-taisha) is one of Japan's most famous and historic Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto. Dating back to 718 CE, during the Asuka period, this shrine was originally constructed as a temple but was later rebuilt into its current form in 1921-1923. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture, including a five-story pagoda and several ornate buildings. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include various shrines dedicated to different kami, such as the god of good fortune and prosperity. The shrine's interior features intricate wood carvings and colorful torii gates.

蛭子神社

蛭子神社

Hyogo

Fumotoji Shrine, located in Hyogo Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Fumotojin, a kami believed to watch over fishermen and travelers. The shrine's architecture reflects its role as a protector of the sea and its people. Visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, adorned with beautiful gardens and traditional wooden lanterns.

伊勢神社

伊勢神社

Hyogo

Ise Jingu is one of Japan's most revered Shinto shrines, located on the island of Awaji in Hyogo Prefecture. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami, it has been the imperial family's primary deity for centuries. The shrine's architecture and traditions are deeply rooted in Japanese history and culture.

住吉神社

住吉神社

Hyogo

The Residence of the Sun God Shūji, a Shinto shrine in Hyōgo Prefecture dedicated to the worship of the sun goddess Amaterasu, is believed to have been founded during the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine complex features a distinctive five-story pagoda and a large wooden torii gate. Locals believe that the shrine's founding date coincides with the mythical origin story of the Japanese imperial family.

淡路國三之宮 伊勢久留麻神社

淡路國三之宮 伊勢久留麻神社

Hyogo

Located in Hyogo Prefecture, the Ise Kurihashi Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Ise no Kami and Tsukuyomi-gami. The shrine's name 'Ise Kurihashi' literally translates to 'Ise Country Bridge', which reflects its historic location as an important bridge connecting the city of Ise with the surrounding countryside. The shrine complex features a distinctive wooden torii gate and a tranquil garden, providing visitors with a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

緋乃本稲荷神社

緋乃本稲荷神社

Hyogo

Located in the heart of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Shitennō-ji Inari Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice and industry. As one of Japan's oldest temples, it has been an important cultural and spiritual center for over 1,400 years. The shrine is famous for its vermilion torii gates and its role as a major festival hub in Kobe.

戎神社

戎神社

Hyogo

Tatsunohashi Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of war, Tatsu-no-haya-kami, located in Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Yatate-style, with a distinctive curved eave and tiled roof. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it dates back to the 7th century and has played an important role in the local history and culture.

住吉神社

住吉神社

Hyogo

Respectfully known as the residence of the Sun Goddess, Mikasa-gami, residing in Hyogo Prefecture, Living Treasures of Japan's historic shrines, and revered for centuries as a symbol of prosperity, fortune, and joy, the shrine's name, meaning 'Sun God Shrine', originates from its association with the mythological figure, who was believed to have guided the sun through the sky. The shrine's architecture is characterized by a unique blend of traditional Japanese styles, including the Hiyoshi-zukuri style found in Nara-era shrines, reflecting its historical significance as a prominent Shinto shrine. Visitors can explore various buildings and structures, each with its own distinct charm, showcasing the shrine's remarkable architectural heritage.

金刀比羅神社

金刀比羅神社

Hyogo

Kinko-dera Shrine, located in Hyogo Prefecture, is dedicated to the god of swords and craftsmen. This Shinto shrine has been an important center for swordsmithing since its founding during the Nara period (794-794 CE). The shrine's architecture reflects this significance with a hall specifically designed for sword displays. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing historic swords, as well as participate in traditional sword-making workshops.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

Niigata

Located in the city of Agematsu, Niigata Prefecture,諏訪神社 (Visnu Shrine) is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine is dedicated to Visnu, a major deity in Shintoism, and is also famous for its association with the mythical sea goddess, Ōtohime. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including the main hall and torii gate, as well as participate in rituals and ceremonies held throughout the year, such as the annual Tanabata festival.

有松天満社

有松天満社

Gifu

古戸稲荷神社

古戸稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Ancient Todaiji Temple and its adjacent shrines were once major centers of Shinto worship in the region. The Todaiji temple complex was originally located here, but it has been relocated to Nara. Despite not being the main location for the Todaiji shrine anymore, the Todai-ji's successor shrines are still enshrined here as an important part of Ibaraki's historical heritage. This ancient Shinto shrine has seen many changes throughout history, with its current building dating back to the Edo period.

古村積神社

古村積神社

Gifu

平潟神社

平潟神社

Niigata

平潟神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Minamiuonuma, Niigata Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of the fertile plains and rice production. The shrine is situated on the banks of the Agano River and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rice fields and mountains. According to local legend, the shrine was established by a local deity who granted fertility and prosperity to the area.

大宮神社

大宮神社

Gunma

Located in the heart of Japan, Ōmiya-jinja Shrine is a significant Shinto site that has been worshiped for over 1,000 years. As one of the oldest shrines in the country, it played a crucial role in the development of Japanese mythology and culture. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical periods, with various reconstructions and additions made during the Nara, Heian, Kamakura, and Edo eras.

髙屋八幡神社

髙屋八幡神社

Shiga

Highly revered at the intersection of Lake Biwa and a regional canal, Katsuyama Taisha's secondary shrine, Hikuta Inari Shrine in Shiga Prefecture honors the god of rice, prosperity, and good fortune, Hikuta Inari. The shrine is dedicated to the worship of eight deities, known as the 'Hachiroku', reflecting its rich history and cultural significance.

國造神社

國造神社

Shiga

國造神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Shiga Prefecture, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami. The shrine was originally constructed during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and rebuilt in the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE). Its architecture reflects the Heian style, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. The shrine's design is also characterized by its unique vermilion roof tiles.

駒形神社

駒形神社

Iwate

Located in the city of Mutsu, Aomori Prefecture is not in Iwate but rather the closest correct one to be near Mutsu; 駒形神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Tsuchinokami Fujin. The shrine's main hall, designed in the traditional Heian style, features an impressive wooden torii gate and a large stone lantern. It is believed to have been built during the Heian period. This shrine serves as a significant cultural landmark and spiritual hub for locals and visitors alike.