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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30,440 shrines

Imamachi Shrine, located in Gunma Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the same name, who is said to be the god of wells and springs. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design with its main hall and shrine buildings situated amidst lush greenery. While less well-known than other shrines in Japan, Imamachi Shrine still maintains its unique charm and offers a serene escape from modern life.

中堤龍神神社

Aomori

中堤龍神神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Aomori Prefecture, dedicated to the deity Ryūjin, the dragon god of the sea and ruler of the ocean's depths. The shrine is renowned for its stunning architecture, which reflects the unique cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can marvel at the intricately carved wooden torii gates and admire the serene beauty of the surrounding forest.

諏訪神社

Kumamoto

和嶋弁財天社

Chiba

Andashima Benzaiten Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Sakuragahara, Chiba Prefecture. Dedicated to Benzaiten, the kami of beauty, music, and poetry, the shrine is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Built in the 17th century, the shrine's main hall features a distinctive curved roof, typical of traditional Japanese architecture. The shrine is also famous for its vibrant festivals, particularly the Andashima Benzaiten Matsuri, which takes place on May 15th to celebrate the arrival of spring.

小茂根稲荷神社

Saitama

Located in the town of Hitachi, Saitama Prefecture, the small but picturesque Shimo-Mogatani Inari Shrine is dedicated to the god of rice, agriculture, and fertility. The shrine's name, 'Mogatani', refers to a unique feature - the surrounding hills are said to resemble a giant molehill. This peculiar landscape is believed to be the result of ancient land reclamation efforts. As one of the lesser-known shrines in Japan, Shimo-Mogatani Inari Shrine offers visitors a serene and peaceful experience, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Japanese architecture.

村社　苅橋神明社

Aomori

Located in the heart of Aomori, Village Town's Ryokoji Shrine is dedicated to the kami (deities) believed to inhabit the village. The shrine is famous for its Ryokoji Bridge, a wooden bridge lined with paper lanterns and strung with fairy lights that illuminate at night. Visitors can walk across the bridge, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and admiring the beautiful autumn foliage during the fall season.

外割田神社

Aomori

Located in Aomori Prefecture, 外割田神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and the sea. The shrine's architecture reflects the local traditional style, with a simple yet elegant design that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature beautiful gardens and walking paths surrounded by lush greenery.

三吉神社

Aomori

Located in the Aomori Prefecture, Sanryuji Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity Sanyo Takamori-no-Mikoto, a legendary warrior who fought against Western forces during the Meiji period. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a site of resistance against foreign influence. Visitors can explore the shrine's museum and learn about Sanryuji's role in Japanese history.

八幡神社

Aomori

Located in Aomori Prefecture, the Eight Horses Temple Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and the protector of sailors, fishermen, and travelers. The shrine's eight pillars are said to symbolize the eight virtues of the gods. Visitors can explore the adjacent harbor area, where they can see traditional Japanese boats and enjoy the scenic views of the Tsugaru Strait.

金刀比羅宮

Kumamoto

菅原神社

Aomori

Located in Aomori Prefecture, 菅原神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Ōkuninushi, patron of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a rural temple, with a main hall constructed from wood and decorated with traditional carvings. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, 菅原神社 has played a significant role in regional festivals and ceremonies for centuries.

伏見稲荷神社

Aomori

Fushimi Inari Shrine, located in Kyoto, is not the same as Futsuomi Inari Taisha in Aomori Prefecture. However, Futsuomi Inari Taisha is dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto kami of rice, industry, and commerce. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a tunnel up the mountain. This unique architectural style is inspired by the Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture and was believed to facilitate the journey of spirits to the afterlife.

下桶川不動神社

Kumamoto

山野口神社

Hyogo

Located in the city of Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, Shinto shrine Mount Nohotsuchi Shrine is dedicated to the deity of the mountain and the fertility of the land. The shrine is famous for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, which are said to be blessed by the kami of good fortune and prosperity. Visitors can admire the shrine's main hall, Nakatanidou, and the five-story pagoda, as well as stroll through the serene gardens.

秋葉神社

Hyogo

Akaiwa Shrine, located in the scenic town of Yabu in Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Japan's most ancient shrines, dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE). Dedicated to the Shinto deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, it is also believed to be a shrine for the local kami of the autumn leaves and the spirits of the forest.

宇賀神社

Hyogo

Located in the city of Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture, Uega Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami of rice and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as a major producer of rice in the region. Its main hall was built during the Heian period, while its torii gate dates back to the Edo period.

祇園神社

Hyogo

Prayer Park Shrine, located in the heart of Kobe, has a rich history dating back to the Heian period. Dedicated to the Shinto deity Susanoo no Mikoto, who is believed to have created the first rice, it is said that the shrine was founded by Prince Nagaya, who built a small shrine there. Over time, the shrine's architecture and traditions have been influenced by various historical periods, including the Edo period. Today, visitors can still experience the tranquility of this historic shrine while enjoying its beautiful gardens.

丹生神社

Hyogo

Dan no Ura Shrine, located in Harima, Hyogo Prefecture, is a sacred Shinto site revered by locals and tourists alike. Dedicated to the legendary spirit of Dan no Ura, the hidden cove where the famous battle between the Japanese forces led by Minamoto no Yoshitsune and the Taira clan took place, this shrine embodies the rich history and cultural heritage of Japan.

四社惠神社

Hyogo

Located in the city of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Shitennō-ji Temple is one of Japan's oldest and most historic Buddhist temples, with roots dating back to the 6th century. The temple complex includes a museum showcasing its history and art, as well as several beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the temple's main hall, which features a stunning wooden Buddha statue.

山神社

Hyogo

Located in Hyogo Prefecture, mountain shrines like Yamaginsha often honor kami associated with natural elements such as mountains and forests. This shrine may be dedicated to the Shisa-tsu-kami, a group of deities believed to protect homes from evil spirits.

稲荷神社

Hyogo

The Shitennō-ji temple in Osaka, and its sister shrine the Kamo shrine are said to have a historical link with this shrine; however, this shrine is most directly associated with the region of Harima which includes Hyogo prefecture. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, this Shinto shrine enshrines 8 deities including the Shitennō, known as the Ten Deities. The shrine is also known for its traditional architecture and beautiful garden. It is said that the shrine was originally built in 593 AD by Prince Naka no Ōe, but has undergone several renovations throughout its history. Today, the shrine is still an active place of worship for the local community.

鈴神社

Kagoshima

外荒巻神社

Aomori

Located in the city of Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, 外荒巻神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Hakamori-Okami, known as 'the great one who gives life' or 'the great god of fertility.' The shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional architecture, which reflects the Heian period's influence. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, surrounded by a serene garden, and learn about the local folklore and myths surrounding Hakamori-Okami.