A–Z directory

熊野神社

Kumano Jinja

Japanese Name熊野神社
English NameKumano Jinja
PrefectureMiyagi
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityŌjin
Coordinates38.0258414, 140.7343866

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the northern part of Japan, Kumano Jinja is one of the most sacred Shinto shrines dedicated to the gods of the Kumano region. As a major pilgrimage site, it attracts thousands of visitors each year who seek blessings and spiritual renewal. The shrine's history dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.

Cultural Significance

Kumano Jinja is closely tied to the mythology of the Kumano region, which features a cast of deities known as the 'yamabushi'. These mountain ascetics are said to possess supernatural powers and offer guidance to travelers on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. The shrine also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Cherry Blossom Festival (sakura matsuri) in spring.

Enshrined Deities

Ōjin Yata no Kagami Shiimo

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.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To fully appreciate the shrine's history, consider visiting during the autumn foliage season (koyo) when the surrounding trees display vibrant colors.

History

Kumano Jinja was originally established as a tumulus for the mythical god Ōjin, who is said to have visited the Kumano region around the 4th century AD. The shrine has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries.

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

Japan In Pixels

A pixel art map of Japanese culture — coming 2027

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

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.