A–Z directory

熊野神社

Japanese Name熊野神社
PrefectureAkita
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityRyūjin, Tanuki
Coordinates38.9275836, 139.9015552

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Ko-mori-jinja, the Bear's Cave Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in Akita Prefecture, dedicated to the worship of the kami (spirits) associated with bears and forest spirits. The shrine was originally established in 718 CE during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Its architecture reflects the Heian and Kamakura periods, with a combination of wooden and stone structures. The shrine's name is derived from its original location near a cave where a bear was said to have been revered by local residents.

Cultural Significance

Ko-mori-jinja is associated with the bear spirit, Ryūjin, which symbolizes fertility and abundance. The shrine is also known for its annual Bear Festival (Tanuki Matsuri), where visitors can participate in traditional games and performances. Locals believe that bears bring good luck and prosperity to those who honor them.

Enshrined Deities

Ryūjin Tanuki

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 experience the serene atmosphere, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when sunlight filters through the forest canopy.

History

Established during the Nara period in 718 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

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.