A–Z directory

薬師神社

Japanese Name薬師神社
PrefectureAkita
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityYakushi
Coordinates39.4576605, 140.5274832

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

藥師神社 is a Shinto shrine located in Akita Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of medicine and healing. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a honden (main hall) and a torii gate. According to local legend, the shrine was founded by the god of medicine, who appeared to a local doctor and healed his patient through the power of his divine energy. Today, visitors can pray for health and wellness at the shrine's altars, and take part in traditional festivals such as the Nakadzuka (a festival to ward off illness).

Cultural Significance

藥師神社 has strong connections to the mythology of Shinto medicine. According to legend, the god of medicine was responsible for creating the first acupuncture needles and herbal remedies. The shrine's torii gate is said to be shaped like a medicinal herb, reflecting the connection between nature and healing.

Enshrined Deities

Yakushi Kagayamori-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

When visiting the shrine, be sure to purchase a 'saisen' ticket, which allows you to participate in the Nakadzuka festival and other traditional events.

History

The shrine was founded in the Edo period (1603-1867), during the time of the Tokugawa shogunate.

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

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.