Katori Jingu

Katori Jingu Shrine is the head shrine of about 400 Katori shrines nationwide. Together with Kashima Jingu (Ibaraki) and Ikisu Shrine, it is known as the “Togoku Sansha” (Three Great Shrines of the Eastern Provinces). The shrine enshrines Futsunushi-no-Okami, a martial deity who appears in the Nihon Shoki, and is said to bring blessings for victory, travel safety, and protection from misfortune. In recent years it has also been spotlighted as one of the leading power spots in the Kanto region. A must-see highlight is the Romon Gate, built in Genroku 13 and designated an Important Cultural Property in 1983. Surrounded by greenery, the vivid vermilion of the gate contrasts strikingly with the black of the shrine buildings behind it, and it’s especially praised for its beauty with cherry blossoms in spring. Also be sure to look at the richly decorated upper portion of the worship hall. Further back behind the main hall is the Deer Garden (Rokuen). According to legend, the enshrined deities of Katori Jingu and Kashima Jingu exchanged letters by sending a deer, and deer are regarded as a representative animal of Katori Jingu. Access is from JR Sawara Station, about 10 minutes by taxi.