A–Z directory

荒神社

Japanese Name荒神社
PrefectureShimane
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityYamato no Okami
Coordinates34.5566853, 133.2383304

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the Shimane prefecture, Arai Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and the spirits of the trees. Its history dates back to the 8th century, during the Nara period. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which reflects the harmony between nature and human existence.

Cultural Significance

Arai Shrine is associated with the mythology of the Japanese forest spirits, known as 'yukimi'. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and spring cherry blossoms. During the annual 'Setsubun' festival in February, visitors can participate in rituals to purify themselves and welcome the arrival of spring.

Enshrined Deities

Yamato no Okami

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 Arai Shrine, be sure to participate in the ritual of 'mikoshi' procession, where the sacred shrine pole is carried through the streets on a festive occasion.

History

Arai Shrine was first established as a temporary shrine during the Nara period (710-794 CE), but its current structure dates back to 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.