Shrines in Japan

Discover 56 shrines in Japan.

Meoto Iwa

Meoto Iwa

This pair of small sea rocks has been "wed" using rope and ancient Shinto tradition.

Parade at the Penis Festival.

Kawasaki, Japan

Kanamara Matsuri Festival

A rare festival blending religion, blacksmiths, vagina dentata, sex workers, and the straight-up facts of life.

Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamondo

Hiraizumi, Japan

Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamondo

Founded over a thousand years ago, this shrine is said to be built on the site of a warlord's harem prison.

Forest of Seven Lucky Gods

Takayama, Japan

Forest of Seven Lucky Gods

The divine septet of Japanese fortune gods are rendered in 1,000 year old wood at this peaceful site.

Sōgenji Temple (Kappa-Dera)

Shrine to Japanese water-goblins, complete with their preserved body parts.

The O-torii, 16 meters high, was rebuilt in 1875.

Hatsukaichi, Japan

Itsukushima Shrine

Japanese national treasure originally built in 593 CE.

Sake kegs outside the Go'o Shrine.

Go'o Shrine

Shrine dedicated to boars that is believed to cure foot and leg injuries.

Tenryu-Ji Shrine's Bamboo Trail

A beautiful bamboo trail tucked in this famous Japanese Shrine.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

The 10,000 Torii shrine.

Are we missing something unusual in Japan?