A–Z directory

西ノ宮神社

Japanese Name西ノ宮神社
PrefectureIshikawa
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityRyugu-no-Okami, Katsurahime-no-Kami
Coordinates37.0490030, 136.7313482

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the heart of Kanazawa, Westinomyo Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered shrines. Dating back to 757 CE, it was originally built as a humble altar dedicated to the deity of the sea, Ryugu-no-Okami. Over time, the shrine has been expanded and rebuilt several times, with its current structure dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can explore the tranquil gardens, stroll along the winding paths, and marvel at the shrine's traditional architecture.

Cultural Significance

As a coastal deity shrine, Westinomyo Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of Kanazawa's founder, Ryogo. The shrine's primary enshrined kami are Ryugu-no-Okami and Katsurahime-no-Kami, patron deities of the sea and its creatures.

Enshrined Deities

Ryugu-no-Okami Katsurahime-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

To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filters through the trees, casting a golden glow over the grounds.

History

Founded in 757 CE during the Asuka period, Westinomyo Shrine was rebuilt during the Edo period.

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.