Kashima Jingu (Kashima Grand Shrine)

Overview

This is one of the oldest shrines in the eastern region, said to have been founded in the first year of the Jinmu Emperor's reign. The enshrined deity is Takemikazuchi no Okami. The three major spots include the Kaname-ishi (keystone), which is said to be holding down the head of a giant catfish that causes earthquakes; the Mitarai-ike (purification pond) with its sacred spring water; and the Okumiya (inner shrine) located at the end of the approach path from the honden (main hall). Sacred deer (shinroku) are also carefully cared for within the shrine grounds.

Highlights

• ・Kaname-ishi (holding down the earthquake catfish)
• ・Mitarai-ike spring water
• ・Okumiya and the wooded approach path
• ・Sacred deer