Japanese shrines

稲荷社

稲荷社

Tottori

Located in the city of Tottori, the Inari Okusha Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the deity Inari Okami, patron of rice, fertility, and prosperity. Built on a hill overlooking the San'in Coast, the shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel leading up to the main hall. This unique structure is said to symbolize the connection between heaven and earth. Visitors can make offerings at various shrines within the complex, which are believed to be connected through an invisible network of roads called 'fudo myo.' The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a site for agricultural rituals, with many shrines dedicated to rice goddesses and ancestors of the region.

外山社

外山社

Tottori

Located in the town of Kurayoshida, Tottori Prefecture,外山社 (Outside Mountain Shrine) is a Shinto shrine that sits atop a hill overlooking the Sea of Japan. The shrine's primary enshrined deity is Tamazusa-no-kami, a kami associated with longevity and good fortune. The shrine's architecture is characteristic of those found in Tottori Prefecture during the Edo period, featuring a traditional Japanese-style gatehouse and tiled roofing. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside while strolling through the shrine grounds.

荒神社

荒神社

Tottori

Located in the picturesque town of Aki, Tottori Prefecture, Aragami Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the enshrined kami, Ryujin. Dedicated to the sea god, the shrine's architecture reflects its connection to the ocean and its surroundings. The shrine's design features curved roofs and wooden structures, blending harmoniously with nature.

御神木

御神木

Tottori

御神木 Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Tottori Prefecture, dedicated to the worship of Sashibōsai Jikō, a kami associated with trees and forests. The shrine's main hall is designed in the traditional Japanese architectural style of Heian period, featuring a vermillion torii gate and intricately carved wooden decorations. Visitors can explore the surrounding forested area, which is said to be inhabited by the kami, and participate in various Shinto rituals and ceremonies throughout the year.

蛭子社

蛭子社

Tottori

蛭子社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Iwami, Tottori Prefecture, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the kami Inari Okami and is known for its stunning natural surroundings and unique architecture. Visitors can walk through the forest surrounding the shrine and admire the beautiful scenery. The shrine is also famous for its giant wooden pillars, which are believed to have been donated by a local daimyo (feudal lord).

武勇社

武勇社

Tottori

Located in the city of Tottori, Japan,武勇社 (Makabe Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of war and courage, Yamatano Orochi. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a place of spiritual refuge for samurai warriors. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional wooden buildings, adorned with vibrant vermilion paint and iconic torii gates. The shrine's grounds also feature a large stone statue of the eight-headed Yamatano Orochi, said to be capable of controlling the forces of nature.

恵比頭神社

恵比頭神社

Tottori

Ebisou Head Shrine, located in the Tottori Prefecture, is dedicated to Ebisu, the god of prosperity and good fortune. As one of Japan's most famous shrines, it attracts visitors from all over the country seeking blessings and good luck. The shrine's architecture is characteristic of traditional Japanese design, with a main hall built in the 17th century, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. Visitors can participate in various festivals throughout the year, including the Ebisu Matsuri, which takes place on July 27th.

天満宮

天満宮

Tottori

Located in the heart of Tottori Prefecture, Tenshukaku-jinja Shrine is dedicated to the deity of heaven and humanity, Tsukuyomi-no-kami. The shrine's current structure dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912), although it has a history spanning over 1,300 years. Tenshukaku-jinja Shrine is famous for its impressive torii gate and tranquil gardens.

荒神社

荒神社

Tottori

Ryōjin Shrine, located in Tottori Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of fire, Ryōjin. While often linked with Inari Ōkami, which is a more prominent kami associated with rice and industry, Ryoujin's primary focus on fire brings a unique element to this shrine. The shrine's architecture reflects its association with fire, featuring buildings made from materials resistant to flames such as clay and wood. The shrine offers visitors the chance to experience the changing seasons while strolling through the surrounding gardens.

恵比須神社

恵比須神社

Tottori

Located in Tottori Prefecture, Ekibuzu Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of prosperity and good fortune, Ebisu. The shrine's main hall was built during the Meiji period, but its roots date back to the Edo era. Ekibuzu Shrine is renowned for its impressive stone lanterns and ornate torii gates. Visitors can participate in the annual Spring Festival, where they can take part in rituals and games to ensure a bountiful harvest.

米府武内神社

米府武内神社

Tottori

Located in Tottori Prefecture,米府武内神社 is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, Ōkuninushi. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. Its proximity to the Kumoi River makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking good fortune in agriculture.

賀茂神社 天満宮

賀茂神社 天満宮

Tottori

The Shrine of Kami and Tenman Palace, located in the heart of Tottori Prefecture, is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the worship of the deity Yamate-no-Kami. This ancient shrine has stood the test of time since its founding during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest and most historic shrines in Japan. The shrine complex features a unique blend of traditional Japanese architecture, including the characteristic tiled roofs and vermillion gates, which signify good luck and prosperity.

手水舎

手水舎

Tottori

Hand-watering shelter, a humble shrine in the midst of nature, is Tottori's Hand-watering Shrine. Dedicated to Hachiman Okami, Shinto's god of war and patron of samurai, this ancient temple invites visitors to experience serene tranquility amidst lush greenery. The shrine's proximity to the Japanese Alps and scenic coastlines makes it a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike.

山王宮

山王宮

Tottori

Located in the picturesque Tottori Prefecture, Yamajo Shrine is a revered Shinto site that honors the god of storms and lightning, Raijin. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a sacred destination for locals seeking protection from natural disasters. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, adorned with beautifully crafted torii gates and serene gardens.

森脇神社

森脇神社

Tottori

Located in the scenic prefecture of Tottori, Moriwaki Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami Inari Okami and the forest spirit of the surrounding woods. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a sacred site for the indigenous San'in people, with traditional Japanese-style buildings and carefully manicured gardens. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil grounds, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

質留比神社

質留比神社

Tottori

Located in the heart of Tottori Prefecture, Qiyoubi-jinja Shrine is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Qiyou, a deity associated with longevity, prosperity, and good fortune. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stop along the ancient Nakasendo highway.

歳徳神

歳徳神

Tottori

The Shiretoko-jinja Shrine in Tottori Prefecture is dedicated to the Shinto god of longevity, Futsunoki Okuni. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a Buddhist temple, with the main hall's design influenced by Heian period temples. Visitors can explore the shrine's unique wooden structure and see the enshrined statue of Futsunoki Okuni.

唐王神社

唐王神社

Tottori

Located in the city of Tottori, Tangou no Kami-sha is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Tangou-san, a revered figure in Japanese mythology known as the 'Prince of the Tangou' or 'Tangou no Okami'. According to legend, Tangou-san was a powerful deity who ruled over the Tangou Mountains and was often invoked for protection against fire. Today, visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of this region by participating in traditional festivals and rituals at the shrine.

西灘神社

西灘神社

Tottori

Located on the coast of Tottori Prefecture, Sei-ribashi Shrine is a seaside Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the sea, known as Ōtsutsuji-no-kami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful beachside location and traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can enjoy stunning ocean views while exploring the shrine's grounds, which feature traditional torii gates and Shinto shrines.

白尾神社

白尾神社

Tottori

Located in the scenic town of Shimonoseki, Tottori Prefecture's White Tail Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity Inari Okami, often depicted with a white tail, symbolizing his association with rice and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its Heian period roots, with a distinctive curved roof design characteristic of this era. Visitors can explore the serene grounds, which feature a tranquil pond and a variety of traditional Japanese gardens.

黒住教大山教会所

黒住教大山教会所

Tottori

Located in the city of Tottori, Shimonoseki Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Shimenawa-no-Okami and the god of fertility, Inari Okami. The shrine's main hall was rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, but it still retains its traditional architecture and Shinto atmosphere.

金刀比羅神社

金刀比羅神社

Tottori

Gold Sword Shrine, located in the city of Hōki, Tottori Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines and a revered site dedicated to the worship of Bishamon, the god of wealth and prosperity, as well as other deities such as Tsukuyomi, the sun goddess, and Raijin, the lightning god. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a distinctive golden-colored roof that has been preserved since the 17th century. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and picturesque views of the surrounding Hōki Plain.

大山神社

大山神社

Tottori

Located in the mountains of Tottori Prefecture, Daisenji Temple is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Inari Okami. The shrine is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Wakasa and is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

塩津神社

塩津神社

Tottori

Located in the scenic coastal town of Nishinoshima, Tottori Prefecture's Salt Estuary Shrine is dedicated to the sea and its bounty. The shrine's name, 'Salt Estuary,' reflects its unique location on a salt marsh, where the sea meets the land. Founded during the Edo period, it is believed to have been established in 1721 as a result of a miraculous event in which a local woman's wish for fertile land was granted by the kami.