A–Z directory

谷茶海神宮

Japanese Name谷茶海神宮
PrefectureOkinawa
ReligionShinto
Coordinates26.6590878, 127.8887786

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

谷茶海神宮, located on the southernmost tip of Okinawa, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea god Ryukyu-gu and the deity of the tea plant, Chaya-gami. The shrine's architecture reflects its unique Ryukyu Kingdom heritage, with a distinctive blend of traditional Okinawan and Japanese elements. Visitors can explore the shrine's peaceful gardens, which feature a variety of tea plants and stunning ocean views.

Cultural Significance

As an important cultural site in Okinawa, 谷茶海神宮 is connected to the island's rich tea-making traditions and its maritime history. During special festivals, visitors can participate in traditional tea ceremonies and learn about the significance of the tea plant in Okinawan culture.

Enshrined Deities

Ryukyu-gu Chaya-gami

More info

This coastal Shinto shrine is dedicated to sea deities (海神, kaijin) who protect maritime activities and ensure safe passage across the waters. Fishermen, sailors, and coastal communities traditionally worship here seeking divine protection for ocean voyages, abundant fishing harvests, and safety from storms and maritime disasters. The shrine serves as a spiritual guardian for those whose livelihoods depend on the sea, offering prayers for both material prosperity from ocean resources and spiritual protection from the unpredictable forces of nature.

Visitor-oriented summary; please verify important details before travel or citation.

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

To fully appreciate the shrine's scenic beauty, plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best ocean views.

History

The shrine was originally built in 1872 as a memorial to King Sho Tai, the last king of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

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.