Kashima-jingu Shrine 鹿島神宮

Kashima-jingu Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in eastern Japan. Located in the center of Kashima, it is believed to have been built during the 6th century B.C. by Japan's first emperor, Jimmu. Dedicated to the deity of martial arts, this ancient wonder lies just outside Tokyo.

Kashima-jingu shrine is a 10-minute walk from Kashima-Jingu Station. A train from Tokyo Station on the Kashima Line will get you to Kashima-Jingu Station in just over two hours.

A Keisei Bus that runs from Tokyo Station's Yaesu exit directly to Kashima-jingu Shrine takes two hours.

As you enter the shrine, you pass an impressive vermillion two-storied gate leading to seven key attractions, including a large front shrine, the main shrine, and the treasure hall.

The shrine is dedicated to Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, the Shinto god of thunder and war. Takemikazuchi-no-Okami is associated with martial arts, and many dojos across Japan display scrolls with his image. Kashima-jingu has been visited by Japanese warlords since the beginning of recorded history.

Don't miss visiting the Shrine's Deer Park. Deer roam freely, and visitors are welcomed to get up close and feed them. In ancient Japan, deer were believed to be the messengers of the gods. This is why deer parks are found at many temples and shrines throughout Japan.

Kashima-jingu Shrine holds many events throughout the year, but the biggest is its New Year's festival. During the first three days of January, over 600,000 people from all over Japan attend the event.