Japanese shrines

青龍神社

青龍神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Sakata, Ibaraki Prefecture, Akōryū-jinsha Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the dragon god Ryūjin and the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune's deified spirit. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a site where Yoshitsune's mother died and he later defeated his enemies. Visitors can explore the museum, which houses artifacts from the Heian period, and enjoy traditional performances at the shrine during festivals.

雷神社

雷神社

Miyagi

Raijinsha is a Shinto shrine located in Miyagi Prefecture, dedicated to Raijin, the god of thunder and lightning. This shrine is believed to have been founded in 1623 during the Edo period, making it one of the oldest shrines in the region. Raijinsha is known for its unique architecture, which features a distinctive Ryukugo-style gate with a distinctive curved roof. The shrine's main hall also features a beautiful cedar wood structure, typical of traditional Japanese architecture.

白髭明神宮

白髭明神宮

Miyagi

Located in the city of Sendai, White Beard Shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the Shinto god of war and patron deity of samurai warriors. The shrine is known for its striking architecture, which reflects the Heian period's influence on Shinto temples. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and traditional buildings, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

樫岡神社

樫岡神社

Miyagi

Yatsugatake-yama Shrine, located in the Shiroishi-machi neighborhood of Sendai City in Miyagi Prefecture, is dedicated to the protection and prosperity of the region. The shrine's name 'Kasugawara' or 'Kasuga' roughly translates to 'forest on a hill'. It is believed that the shrine was built at the foot of Yatsugatake Mountain as a result of the forest having been so thick with cedar trees it created a unique 'tree forest effect', which gave birth to the spirit. The main kami enshrined here is Kasuga Okami. Kami-enshrined includes Tsukuyomi, Fujin, and Benzaiten.

新田八幡神社

新田八幡神社

Miyagi

新田八幡神社, located in the prefecture of Miyagi, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and protector of travelers. The shrine's history dates back to the Heian period, with evidence suggesting its existence during this time. It has undergone several renovations over the centuries, with notable changes made during the Edo period. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including a five-story pagoda, which is said to be a symbol of Hachiman's power.

諏訪神社

諏訪神社

千葉県 · 柏市

Tsuk Baba Shrine, located in Tsukubamura, Chiba Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period's influence, with a wooden torii gate and a five-story pagoda. Visitors can experience the unique charm of the shrine by trying their luck at the 'Tsuk Baba Tsurugi,' an ancient sword-drawing ritual performed during special events.

吉浦神社

吉浦神社

Saga

Located in the heart of Saga,吉浦神社 is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the sea and fertility, believed to have been built during the Edo period. The shrine's architecture reflects its coastal location, with a distinctive tiled roof and wooden lanterns. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine grounds, which feature a serene pond and walking paths.

明見神社

明見神社

Kagawa

Mie no Kami Shrine, located in Kagawa Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of wind and storms, Mie no Kami. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a large torii gate and a main hall featuring a unique tiled roof. According to local legend, the shrine was built to appease the kami after a devastating flood in the area. Visitors can experience the shrine's tranquility by strolling through its beautiful gardens and admiring the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

蛭子大神宮

蛭子大神宮

Kagawa

Located in the scenic town of Awajishima, Frog God Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the worship of Inari Ōkami, the kami of rice and fertility. With its unique architectural style reflecting the region's cultural heritage, the shrine is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature traditional Japanese gardens and a stunning torii gate.

住吉神社

住吉神社

Kagawa

Resha-ji Shrine, located in the picturesque town of Zentsujo on the shores of Lake Togo in Kagawa Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines. The shrine honors Otsukimi, a kami associated with good fortune, prosperity, and protection from evil spirits. Its architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a wooden torii gate and a tranquil garden featuring cherry blossoms and maple trees.

尾崎明神社

尾崎明神社

Kagawa

Tailoring a respectful visit to the Okazaki Misono Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan is essential. Upon arrival, head through the torii gate into the serene forested grounds and explore the shrine's various structures, including the main hall and the old storehouse. For an authentic experience, arrive at dawn or just before dusk to witness the tranquil atmosphere and watch for the fleeting golden light of sunrise or sunset. Additionally, be sure to visit during festivals, particularly the annual 'Hinamatsuri' festival in May, when the shrine's sacred lanterns are adorned with cherry blossom decorations.

荒神さん

荒神さん

Kagawa

Located in the prefecture of Kagawa, 荒神さん shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami Inari Okami. This shrine is part of the Inari Taisha complex, which consists of multiple shrines and torii gates throughout Japan. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1914, but the original shrine dates back to the Edo period. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful architecture.

和田神社

和田神社

Shiga

Andatagū Shrine, located in the Hikone city of Shiga Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami and the storm god Susanoo no Mikoto. The shrine's name reflects its close ties with nearby Lake Biwa, which played an essential role in the region's history and culture. Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), Andatagū Shrine is one of Japan's oldest shrines.

稻荷大明神

稻荷大明神

Tokushima

Indoors, visitors can admire the shrine's main hall, a striking example of Heian-period architecture, featuring a large tile roof and intricate wood carvings. The shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a Shinto god of storms and fertility, who is believed to reside in the nearby Awa Odoshi festival grounds. Outside, the peaceful Sanuki River flows by, creating a serene atmosphere that invites contemplation. The shrine's tranquil surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking solace and connection with nature.

正一位稲荷大明神

正一位稲荷大明神

Tokushima

Located in the heart of Shikoku, the main shrine of Tokushima is dedicated to Inari Okami, a deity revered for his association with rice and prosperity. The shrine complex features a mix of traditional and modern architecture, including a five-story torii gate and several smaller shrines. Visitors can explore the tranquil gardens and enjoy the local cuisine, which often features Inari's sacred rice as a symbol of good fortune.

佐伯八幡宮 荒魂神社

佐伯八幡宮 荒魂神社

Tokushima

佐伯八幡宮 is a Shinto shrine located in Tokushima Prefecture, known for its beautiful garden and traditional architecture. The shrine is dedicated to the kami of rice and fertility, with a focus on protecting the community from natural disasters. Its historic roots date back to the Heian period, making it one of the oldest shrines in the region. The shrine's design reflects the traditional style of Japanese gardens, with a central path leading to the main hall.

第六天神社

第六天神社

Tokyo

The sixth heaven shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo, is dedicated to the Shinto deity known as Tenjin, the patron god of learning and culture. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese designs with a wooden torii gate and a complex system of vermilion gates. According to legend, the shrine was built by Emperor Jimmu in the 7th century, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Today, visitors can experience the shrine's tranquil atmosphere while exploring the surrounding Tokyo neighborhood.

古峯神社

古峯神社

Tokyo

Located in the heart of Tokyo, Fumon Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in the city, with a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). The shrine's name, Fumon, which translates to ' ancient mountain pass,' reflects its location along the old Kumagawa River. Dedicated to the Shinto deities of fertility and prosperity, Fumon Shrine is a popular destination for Tokyo residents seeking good fortune and blessings.

両社明神社

両社明神社

Ehime

Located in Iya Valley, Ehime Prefecture, Two-Sha Myojinsha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the twin deities of Kuma and Mimi, who are believed to have protected the region from wildfires and famine. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with a wooden torii gate and simple stone structures. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature various artifacts and treasures, including ceramics, textiles, and ancient tools.

香取神社

香取神社

埼玉県 · さいたま市

Located in Saitama City, Saihō-ji Temple is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of wealth and prosperity, Benzaiten. With its unique architecture and rich history, Saihō-ji Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and traditions.

香取神社

香取神社

埼玉県 · さいたま市

Located in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture,香取神社 (Katsuragi Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari Okami, revered as the patron deity of education and child-rearing. Built on a hill overlooking the Arakawa River, the shrine's architecture reflects traditional Heian-period styles. The shrine complex features several shrines, including a hall dedicated to Inari, with numerous vermilion torii gates, suggesting an enduring connection to this deity.

大宮神社

大宮神社

Chiba

Located in the heart of Chiba Prefecture, the Ōmiya Hachiman Shrine is one of Japan's most prominent Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god of war Hachiman. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of traditional and modern styles, with its iconic torii gate standing out amidst the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens, learn about its rich history, and experience the vibrant festivals that take place throughout the year.

東征神社

東征神社

Ibaraki

Located in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, East Seiki Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Seikei Okami, the god of good luck and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. Visitors can participate in rituals and ceremonies, such as the purification ceremony for spring festivals. The shrine's surroundings feature scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

小浜神社

小浜神社

Shiga

Located in the scenic town of Ryuhaku, Omi-Shi, Shiga Prefecture, the small Hamamatsu-ji Shrine is dedicated to a lesser-known kami named Yatagarasu. According to local legend, a bird with three tails, known as Yatagarasu, appeared at this site and brought good fortune to the area. The shrine's architecture reflects its humble beginnings, featuring a simple torii gate and a single main hall. Despite its modest appearance, Hamamatsu-ji Shrine is steeped in history and remains an important cultural landmark for locals and visitors alike.