A–Z directory

薬師神社

Japanese Name薬師神社
PrefectureMiyagi
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityKatsuragi-no-kami
Coordinates37.8321600, 140.4545302

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the city of Sendai, Japan's second-largest city, Katsuragishinsha Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of medicine, healing, and pharmacist, Takamimusubi, but is also known as 薬師神社 (Katsuragi-shinsha) or simply 薬師神 (Katsuragi-shin). The shrine is famous for its unique architectural style, which reflects the region's historical influence by the ancient Buddhist temple Kannon-ji. With a history dating back to 711 AD, it is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan and a significant cultural landmark in Miyagi Prefecture.

Cultural Significance

This shrine is particularly notable for its connections to Shinto medicine. According to legend, a famous Shinto priest from the area was said to have healed the emperor by using a miraculous elixir made from medicinal herbs obtained from the shrine's grounds. To this day, visitors can see the remains of an ancient healing spring and herbal garden.

Enshrined Deities

Katsuragi-no-kami

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 architectural style, visit at sunrise or sunset when possible, as the fading light brings out the intricate carvings and ornaments on the temple structure.

History

The shrine was originally dedicated to Takamimusubi during the Nara period (710-794 AD) but later came under the influence of Buddhism.

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.