A–Z directory

熊野神社

Kumano Shrine

Japanese Name熊野神社
English NameKumano Shrine
PrefectureShizuoka
ReligionShinto
Primary DeitySusanoo
Coordinates35.0053648, 138.9483423

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Kumano Shrine is one of Japan's most sacred Shinto sites, dedicated to the worship of the divine powers believed to reside within the Kumano Mountains of Shikoku and Kii Peninsulas. The shrine was originally constructed in 711 CE during the Nara period, with subsequent reconstructions and renovations taking place over the centuries, particularly during the Heian and Kamakura periods. Today, it is a prominent cultural and spiritual landmark, attracting millions of pilgrims every year.

Cultural Significance

The shrine is notable for its unique architectural style, featuring a large torii gate and several distinct regional kami. The shrine also has strong connections to Shinto mythology, particularly in relation to the legend of the 'Eight Deities of the Shiga' (Shigaraki, Nariwakatsu, Hashihara, Kusunoki, Sakamoto, Hatakeyama, Kinryu, and Yoshitsune). Additionally, Kumano Shrine is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees and traditional New Year's festival held on January 12th.

Enshrined Deities

Susanoo The Storm God

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

Visitors can purchase a 'Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Passport' at the shrine's ticket office, which allows them to stamp their passport at each of the 88 Kumano shrines along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.

History

The shrine was reestablished in 1875 after being damaged by fire.

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.