A–Z directory

山神社

Japanese Name山神社
PrefectureMiyagi
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityMount Zao no Okami
Coordinates38.5635991, 141.2461207

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the Miyagi Prefecture, Zao Shinsha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Zao, a sacred site known for its unique 'snow monsters' (yuki-onna) that form during extreme cold snaps. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall and several smaller shrines. Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding mountains while paying respects to the shrine's enshrined kami.

Cultural Significance

Zao Shinsha is closely tied to the local folklore surrounding yuki-onna, a spirit said to appear as a beautiful woman who freezes to death in the mountains. The shrine's primary kami is believed to be that of Zao no Okami, the mountain's enshrined deity.

Enshrined Deities

Mount Zao 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.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To fully appreciate the shrine's connection to Mount Zao, consider visiting during the winter months when the 'snow monsters' are at their peak.

History

The shrine was first established in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in the region.

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.