Shirakawa Kashima Shrine
白河鹿嶋神社
Kashima Shrine
Kashima Jingu is one of the most ancient and prestigious shrines in eastern Japan, enshrining Takemikazuchi, the deity of thunder and swords who, according to mythology, pacified the earthly realm to prepare for the descent of the imperial line. Together with nearby Katori Jingu, it formed the divine gateway to the eastern frontier. The shrine possesses one of only five complete sets of ancient armor designated National Treasures, and its sacred deer park predates the more famous one at Nara. The word 'kashima-dachi' (Kashima departure), meaning an auspicious beginning to a journey, entered the Japanese language from the custom of praying here before setting out on long travels. The shrine's ancient forest, enormous sacred spring (Mitarashi-no-ike), and 'kaname-ishi' (foundation stone said to pin down the earthquake-causing catfish) create a profoundly atmospheric pilgrimage site.
Source: Hitachi Fudoki (earliest reliable mention; kobe rebuilt in 649)
Earliest reliable historical mention in Hitachi Fudoki
Current main hall built by Tokugawa Hidetada
Head shrine of approximately 600 branch shrines nationwide.
The Japanese expression 'kashima-dachi' (an auspicious departure) comes from the ancient custom of praying at this shrine before a journey.
Source: documented
The shrine's 'kaname-ishi' (foundation stone) is believed to pin down the giant catfish that causes earthquakes.
Source: tradition
Kashima was one of only three shrines accorded the 'Jingu' honorific in the Engishiki, the other two being Ise and Katori.
Source: documented
Kashima Shrine in Ibaraki. Houses the national treasure sword Futsu-no-mitama. The sword deity tradition connects to the game's themes.
Location Coordinates
35.9688, 140.6310
2306-1 Kyuchu, Kashima, Ibaraki
Hitachi
Kashima-Jingu Station (JR Kashima Line)
Open daily, grounds open 24 hours
Highway bus from Tokyo Station (2 hours)
Partial
One of only three 'Jingu' shrines in ancient Japan and the head of a network of over 600 Kashima shrines. Its role in mythology as the departure point for the divine pacification of Japan and its deep martial arts connections make it foundational to understanding Shinto's relationship with Japanese state formation.
Contenu redige par l'equipe editoriale de Jinja DB
Kashima Jingu is one of the most ancient and prestigious shrines in eastern Japan, enshrining Takemikazuchi, the deity of thunder and swords who, according to mythology, pacified the earthly realm to prepare for the descent of the imperial line. Together with nearby Katori Jingu, it formed the divine gateway to the eastern frontier. The shrine possesses one of only five complete sets of ancient armor designated National Treasures, and its sacred deer park predates the more famous one at Nara. The word 'kashima-dachi' (Kashima departure), meaning an auspicious beginning to a journey, entered the Japanese language from the custom of praying here before setting out on long travels. The shrine's ancient forest, enormous sacred spring (Mitarashi-no-ike), and 'kaname-ishi' (foundation stone said to pin down the earthquake-causing catfish) create a profoundly atmospheric pilgrimage site.
Kashima Shrine is located in Kashima, Ibaraki. The full address is: 2306-1 Kyuchu, Kashima, Ibaraki.
The enshrined deities are: Takemikazuchi no Okami.
Kashima Shrine is known for: victoire, arts martiaux, voyage en securite, nouveaux projets.
The nearest station is Kashima-Jingu Station (JR Kashima Line). It is about a 10-minute walk from the station. Highway bus from Tokyo Station (2 hours)