Celebrating Ibaraki Day: Must-Visit Shrine in the Prefecture

Founded in 660 BC, Kashima Jingu is not only one of Japan's oldest shrines, but also one of the most significant. It is also known as the spiritual birthplace of Japanese Martial Arts.  Dedicated to Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, the Shinto deity of thunder and swords, this sacred sanctuary has been revered by samurai and martial artists for centuries as a source of strength and new beginnings.

Stepping through its massive wooden torii gate feels like entering another world. There is a distinct aura about the place. Towering, centuries-old cedar trees shade a peaceful forest path leading to the brightly lacquered Main Shrine and the secluded Okumiya (Inner Shrine). Along the way, visitors can meet sacred deer, considered divine messengers, in the shrine’s Deer Park.

Beyond its main halls, Kashima Jingu is famous for two of the legendary "Seven Wonders of Kashima." Deep in the woods sits Kaname-ishi, an ancient stone believed to pin down a giant earthquake-causing catfish beneath the earth. Nearby lies Mitarashi Pond, a crystal-clear spring pool that produces over 400,000 liters of pure water daily. 

The shrine also boasts the largest torii on water in all of Japan at Lake Kitaura, as well as a seaside torii to the east. Both, especially the latter, are quite a walk from the main hall, but combining a trip to each with the shrine itself makes Kashima Jingu an unforgettable Ibaraki destination.