Shinto Shrines in Japan

There are approximately 100,000 Shinto Shrines that exist in Japan, but the map below only shows 14 of some of the most important or famous Shinto Shrines.

These 14 Shrines are some of the most visited and important Shinto Shrines that exist in Japan. The 14 shrines above are all dedicated to a different kami(god), and some even represent important people and events based on the area the shrine is built in. There are sun gods, water gods, earth gods, money gods, etc. Each shrine has a different story. For example, the Zeniarai Benten shrine is a place said to be able to multiply your money, The tradition says that visitors should put their money in the wicker basket, kneel respectfully and ladle the shrine's natural spring water over and on the money at least five times. The Nezu Shrine a place that has 1900 years of history is designated as a national important cultural property. You can say that the other shrines also hold that much of an importance to Japan as well. These are some of Japan's most prized, expensive, culturally rich, historical, and beautiful landmarks.

These beautiful places for worship spread all across Japan hold an immense amount of history and religion. The major religion in Japan is Shinto and these shrines that were built each hold a different meaning and importance. The most iconic feature when you see a Shinto shrine is definitely the Torii gate usually in various shades of the color vermillion and black. These gates are meant to separate the physical human and spiritual world.

Usually, when you pay a visit to a Shinto Shrine you have to go through a process of cleansing yourself with water in a specific way. From then people would make their way to the offering box where it is customary to offer a 5 yen coin. The 5 yen coin is used to strengthen your connection with the Kami (God) of the shrine and is considered as good luck. After the offering, you would bow twice, clap twice, and put your hands together to pray. Before you leave bow once more before leaving.

All the Shrines seen on the map above have tori gates and a donation box, but each shrine is built differently and holds a different significance. Even though all the shrines exist in the name of the Shinto religion each has its own traditions and stories. I like to see the Shinto shrines as a place where people can place their hopes and whatever they wish. I believe that is one of the reasons why the Shinto religion is so big in Japan. My main reason for choosing to map Shinto shrines is because the religion is so fascinating. Seeing how each Shrine is a physical place that holds a huge amount of hope for people who have different values and wishes is amazing. The Shrines built across Japan are like a beacon of hope for those who believe in the Shinto religion.