A–Z directory

道祖神

Dosojin Shrine

Japanese Name道祖神
English NameDosojin Shrine
PrefectureKanagawa
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityDosojin (road and boundary deities)
TypeDosojin Shrine
Coordinates35.4600036, 139.3524665

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Dosojin shrines are small roadside sanctuaries dedicated to protective deities of travelers, boundaries, and villages. These folk religious sites are found throughout Japan, particularly in rural areas and at crossroads, mountain passes, and village entrances. The stone markers or small shrine structures serve as guardians against evil spirits and misfortune.

Cultural Significance

Dosojin are often depicted as paired male and female figures representing fertility and protection. Local festivals called Dosojin Matsuri frequently involve burning old New Year decorations and prayers for safety and good harvests. The deities are particularly associated with protection of children and safe childbirth.

Enshrined Deities

Dosojin Sae 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.

Browse shrines by prefecture

Jump to Shinto shrines across Japan — 108 prefectures in our directory.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

Look for simple stone markers or small wooden structures at crossroads and village boundaries throughout rural Kanagawa.

History

Dosojin worship combines indigenous Japanese folk beliefs with influences from Chinese Taoism and Buddhism. The tradition likely developed during the Heian period as communities sought protection for travelers and boundaries. These roadside deities became especially important during the Edo period when travel along major routes increased significantly.

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.