A–Z directory

金刀比羅神社

Japanese Name金刀比羅神社
PrefectureIwate
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityBishamon
Coordinates39.7099887, 141.1667056

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the city of Hiraizumi, Miyagi Prefecture, but often mistakenly attributed to Iwate due to regional confusion, Kinoshita Bishamon-gu is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Bishamonten, who is revered as a symbol of protection and strength. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) with a main hall dating back to 1151 CE. In Iwate Prefecture there is not much information on a temple called Kinoshita Bishamon-gu, so it's possible this was originally located there and moved to Miyagi.

Cultural Significance

Bishamonten is also revered as a patron of scholars and intellectuals. The shrine's annual festival, held in May, features traditional dances and performances that reflect this connection to learning and culture.

Enshrined Deities

Bishamonten

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 historic architecture, visitors are advised to arrive early in the morning before sunrise, when the temple grounds and surrounding rice fields are at their most serene.

History

The shrine has undergone several reconstructions throughout its history, with the current structure dating back to 1151 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.