A–Z directory

鹿島明神社

Kashima Shrine

Japanese Name鹿島明神社
English NameKashima Shrine
PrefectureSaga
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityAmaterasu
Coordinates33.0741912, 130.1104713

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Kashima Shrine, located in the city of Karatsu in Saga Prefecture, is one of Japan's most ancient shrines, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Dedicated to the sea goddess Amaterasu, it is said that the shrine was founded by a princess named Kashio who escaped from the palace and found refuge on this island. The shrine complex features a unique blend of traditional Japanese architecture, including a wooden torii gate and a large shrine hall. Kashima Shrine is particularly famous for its annual festivals, which include a vibrant procession at the beginning of autumn and a festival in honor of the sea goddess.

Cultural Significance

Kashima Shrine is connected to the mythology of Amaterasu, who is said to have descended from the heavens to the island of Kashima. The shrine's annual festivals are also associated with the legend of a beautiful princess named Kashio, who was said to have been forced to flee her home and seek refuge on this island.

Enshrined Deities

Amaterasu

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Spot an error?

This shrine data is sourced from OpenStreetMap. You can submit a correction or edit it on OpenStreetMap.

Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Browse shrines by prefecture

Jump to Shinto shrines across Japan — 108 prefectures in our directory.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

When visiting the shrine during the autumnal equinox, try to arrive early to secure a spot near the torii gate, as it is said to bring good luck and prosperity.

History

It was founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE).

A-Z Creatures
Learn Japanese

Japanese Culture Network

Japanese Wood Joints

Ancient joinery techniques of Japanese master craftsmen

ShrinePuzzle

Directory of Japanese board games and traditional games

Kohibou

Japanese coffee culture — kissaten, third wave and brewing guides

E2Japan

Explore Japan's landmarks, shrines and hidden locations

The 725 Club

SNES and Super Famicom collection tracker

Spaceship Adventures

Hoshi no Isan — a Japanese-aesthetic space RPG in development

Uptown Zero

Pixel art life sim MMO — start at zero, build your life

Book Fairy Tales

AI-powered educational stories for kids

CSSKitsune

Japanese-aesthetic design tokens & AI-ready UI prompts

Shinto Wisdom app icon
Free App · No Ads · Offline

Shinto Wisdom Daily Practice

by 10k Game Studio

Every day, one teaching. One moment of stillness.
Kanji, meaning, and a quiet reflection — rooted in the philosophy behind Japan's forests, seasons, and sacred silences.

結び Musubi 清め Harae 自然 Shizen 間 Ma 誠 Makoto + 45 more
Get it on Google Play

Explore 297+ yōkai, oni, kami, and spirits — plus one of the largest English-language Shinto shrine directories on the web.

Explore
Popular Yokai
Popular Shrines

Content Warning: This website explores Japanese folklore and mythological beings—including yokai, oni, and other supernatural entities—that may be frightening to younger audiences or sensitive viewers. All material is presented for educational and cultural appreciation only. Viewer discretion is advised.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to preview content before sharing it with children. By continuing to use JapaneseMythicalCreatures.com, you acknowledge and accept this advisory.

Copyright © 2026 Japanese Mythical Creatures • All Rights Reserved.