Buddhist Temples and Shinto Shrines

Buddhist Temples and Shinto Shrines

Ibaraki has many kinds of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, and each of them has its own distinct atmosphere. How about visiting one and experience its calmness to come to a better understanding of Japanese culture and history?
           

Oarai Isosaki Shrine

Founded in the year 856 when Sukunahikona-no-mikoto, its main deity, is believed to have descended on the Oarai shore, Oarai Isosaki Shrine was rebuilt in 1730 after it had been unused for some periods of time. Since it is located on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you will be impressed with the wonderfully picturesque view.

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Kamiiso no Torii Gate

Oarai Town

Kamiiso no Torii Gate stands on a reef in the Pacific Ocean. It is the place where, according to mythology, Sukunahikona-no-mikoto is said to have descended. The view created by the torii gate and the white-crested waves surging toward it is a must-see, and the scene is especially amazing at sunrise.

Kasama Inari Shrine

One of Japan’s three most popular Inari shrines, Kasama Inari Shrine features a main hall with beautiful carvings that has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Wisteria flowers on a 400-year-old tree bloom in early May, and the shrine is also known for its chrysanthemum festival in autumn. Some visitors pray for prosperity in agriculture, commerce, and the manufacturing and fishing industries, while others pray for a safe birth or successful match-making.

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The Kashima Jingu Grand Shrine

Kashima Jingu Grand Shrine’s vermillion romon (a two-story torii gate) is one of the three greatest Japanese romon gates, and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. Deities of martial arts are enshrined here, and visitors pray for a safe birth, or traffic safety and the like. The kanameishi (a “powerful” stone) and Mitarashi Pond are both well worth seeing.

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AMABIKI KANNON ( THE GODDESS OF MERCY)

Amabikisan Rakuho-ji Temple is well known for its Kannon (the Bodhisattva of compassion). Visitors pray for a safe birth, sound child rearing, and longevity. The temple is popular for its beautiful garden, where the cherry blossoms and azaleas are at their best in spring, and the hydrangeas are in their glory in June. The autumn foliage is also quite beautiful.

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Ushiku Daibutsu (Buddha)

The Ushiku Daibutsu (statue of Buddha) has a total height of 120 meters, and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest bronze statue in the world. You can go inside the Daibutsu, where nearly 3,400 gold-colored images of Buddha are displayed. The view of the vast Kanto region from the observatory at a height of 85 meters is breathtaking.

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