Japanese shrines

Oguki Shrine

小茎神社

Ibaraki

Located in the coastal town of Iwaki, Ibaraki Prefecture, Oguki Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Enmei. The shrine's name, 'Oguki,' roughly translates to 'the place where rice sprouts grow.' This connection to agriculture is reflective of its historical role as a sacred site for rice cultivation and harvest festivals.

Ohiroto Katori Shrine

大広戸香取神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic town of Katori, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ohiroto Katori Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Hotei, as well as the god of prosperity, Shingo, and the god of war, Bishamonten. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical ties to the Kamakura period, with its main hall constructed in 1471 during the Muromachi era. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, torii gates, and traditional structures, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Ohsu Shrine

大洲神社

Ibaraki

Ohsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Tōgane, Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Tsukuyomi, the god of moon and sky, and also enshrines Amaterasu, the sun goddess. As one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki, Ohsu Shrine has a long history dating back to the 7th century. It is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom around spring equinox.

Ōji shrine

王子神社

Ibaraki

Ōji Shrine, located in the prefecture of Ibaraki, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Kingū (also known as Ōjin). The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a rectangular courtyard and a large torii gate. The shrine complex also includes a museum showcasing the history and culture of Kingū, who is revered as a great king in Japanese mythology.

Oji-Inari-jinja Shrine

王子稲荷神社

Ibaraki · 北区

Located in northern Ibaraki Prefecture, Oji-Inari-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, revered as the patron deity of industry, commerce, and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its Heian-period origins, with a five-story pagoda and a sacred torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and traditional Japanese buildings, including a museum showcasing local crafts and art.

Okiinari

沖稲荷神社

Ibaraki

Okiinari Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea god Inari Okami. The shrine's name, Okiinari, literally translates to 'Inari of the Sea', and reflects its connection to the ocean. As a coastal town, Ibaraki has long been reliant on the sea for fishing and trade, making this shrine an important place for fishermen and sailors. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a beautiful torii gate and ornate wooden carvings, and take part in traditional ceremonies to ensure a bountiful harvest.

Okino Jinja

興野神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic prefecture of Ibaraki, Okino Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection and prosperity of the local community. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a key location along the ancient Nakatsuji Road, which connected the provinces of Ibaraki and Tochigi. The current structure dates back to the Edo period, with renovations made in the late 19th century. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and traditional buildings, including the iconic torii gate.

Okuni-jinja Shrine

大國神社

Ibaraki

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Okuni-jinja Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the national deity Ōkuninushi no Kami. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a Heian-period (794-1185 CE) temple site, with a wooden vermillion torii gate and a traditional Japanese garden. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene grounds and learn about the mythology of Ōkuninushi, who is said to have created humans from the earth. Okuni-jinja Shrine is an important cultural and historical landmark in Ibaraki Prefecture.

Omuro Katori Shrine

大室香取神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Kamakura, Omuro Katori Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dating back to the 8th century. As a direct descendant of the famous Katori Shrine, it has been an important site for purification and protection. The shrine is dedicated to various kami, including the god of the sea and fertility.

Onabake-jinja Shrine

女化神社

Ibaraki

Onabake-jinja Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto kami of the same name. According to legend, Onabake was a samurai who died on his wedding night and became a vengeful spirit, known for possessing travelers along the routes connecting Tokyo and Nikko.

Ono Terusaki Jinja Shrine

小野照先神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Otsuka, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ono Terusaki Jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's name, Terusaki, roughly translates to 'the place where one's luck changes.' According to local legend, the shrine was founded by a humble farmer who built it as a way to pray for good fortune and prosperity. Over time, the shrine has been recognized for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Shinto elements with influences from Japanese Buddhism.

Orihime Shrime

おりひめ神社

Ibaraki

Located in the scenic coastal town of Futtsu, Ibaraki Prefecture, Orihime Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea and fertility, known as Tamashima-yama-oki. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with traditional Japanese-style buildings surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and natural beauty of the shrine during their visit.

Orii-jinja Shrine

折居神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Nakaminato, Ibaraki Prefecture, Orii-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of fishermen and the sea. The shrine is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and traditional architecture. The primary enshrined deity is Amaterasu-omikami, the Sun Goddess, but it also honors the kami of the sea, such as Ryujin.

Oshite-jinja Shrine

押手神社

Ibaraki

Oshite-jinja Shrine, located in the rural area of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of a hand that offers a helping hand. According to local legend, the shrine's name refers to its reputation as a place where travelers can find assistance and guidance during times of hardship. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a wooden torii gate and a tiled roof. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature several shrines dedicated to various kami, including the primary deity of Oshite-jinja Shrine.

Osugi Shrine

大杉神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Ōtō, Ibaraki Prefecture, Osugi Shrine is dedicated to the kami of the Japanese cypress tree, known as 'daidaidai' or 'matsu', which is considered sacred by the local residents. The shrine's architecture reflects its regional influence, with a distinctive Shinto-style wooden gate and a traditional torii gate. Visitors can explore the serene grounds and admire the beautiful cedar trees that surround the shrine.

Otori Shrine

大鳥神社

Ibaraki

Otori Shrine, located in the scenic coastal town of Iwaki, Ibaraki Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Otori-Okami, a kami revered for its association with fertility and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a large torii gate, hypozone altar, and intricately carved wooden structures. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a tranquil garden and a museum showcasing local art and history. While there is no definitive founding date for Otori Shrine, it is believed to have originated during the Edo period.

Otori-jinja Shrine

大鳥神社

Ibaraki

Located in the town of Sakurako, Ibaraki Prefecture, Otori-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Otori-no-Mikoto, a deity believed to have been an important god of the ancient Japanese state of Kai. The shrine's main hall and several outbuildings date back to the Edo period, with some structures also attributed to the Heian period. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

Ōyama Shrine

大山神社

Ibaraki

Ōyama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Shimotosa, Ibaraki Prefecture. Dedicated to the deity Ōyamato-no-Kami, who is believed to reside on Ōyama Mountain. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a vermilion torii gate and a wooden hall dedicated to the deity. As the site of an ancient battle between the imperial forces and the Taira clan, the shrine is also associated with the mythological origins of the Japanese nobility.

Raiden Shrine

雷電神社

Ibaraki

Raiden Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of thunder, Raijin. As a significant site in the region, it is believed to have been founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine's architecture is characterized by its traditional Japanese style, with a rectangular main hall and a wooden torii gate. Over time, the shrine has evolved to incorporate local influences and customs. Visitors can experience the shrine's unique atmosphere by attending one of its seasonal festivals, such as the annual Raijin Matsuri in May.

Raiden Shrine

雷電神社

Ibaraki

Raiden Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god of thunder and lightning, is a serene oasis nestled in the heart of rural Ibaraki Prefecture. With its rich history dating back to the Edo period, the shrine has witnessed numerous significant events and cultural developments. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Raiden Shrine offers a unique glimpse into the country's spiritual heritage.

Rokusho-jinja Shrine

六所神社

Ibaraki

Rokusho-jinja Shrine is a Shinto temple located in the town of Chirina, Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the god of war, Hachiman, and is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in the region. The shrine's architecture is typical of Edo-period style, with a large torii gate and a rectangular main hall. Visitors can see various artifacts and relics from past battles at the shrine. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful autumn foliage.

Ryu-jinja Shrine

靇神社

Ibaraki

Ryu-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Iwaki, Ibaraki Prefecture, and is one of Japan's oldest shrines. The shrine was originally built in 718 AD during the Asuka period, making it over 1,300 years old. It is dedicated to the deity Ryu, who is believed to be a sea god and is often depicted as a powerful warrior. The shrine is known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional buildings, including the main hall and the torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful gardens and enjoy traditional Shinto ceremonies and festivals throughout the year.

Ryuja Shrine

龍蛇神社

Ibaraki

Ryuja Shrine, located in the town of Tomamae in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Ryujin, the Dragon God. The shrine is situated at the mouth of the Ryujin River and is believed to have been established during the early Heian period (794-1185 CE). Visitors can observe the impressive torii gate, which stands out against the serene natural surroundings.

Saiki Shrine

妻木神社

Ibaraki

Saiki Shrine, located in the town of Daigo within the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name. The shrine's primary enshrined deity, Saiki, is believed to be associated with agriculture and good fortune. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens, which feature traditional Japanese landscaping and walking paths.