Kashima Shrine

Kashima Shrine in Fukushima is an old shrine that enshrines a great rock, an iwakura, as its sacred object. An iwakura is a rock long believed to house a deity, and here it has been believed to grant blessings of good luck and protection from misfortune. Untouched by tourism, it is a hidden shrine where you can quietly press your hands together in prayer.

Highlights

- The sacred iwakura said to house a deity, a presence carrying ancient nature worship to the present. - A history of faith beloved for blessings of good luck and protection. - Quiet grounds surrounded by trees and clear, pure air. - A simple, warm setting rooted in the community rather than anything showy.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the trees of the grounds bud and soft light falls on the iwakura. Summer brings cooling shade and quiet prayer amid the shower of cicada song. Autumn dyes the surroundings in fall colors, and in winter the iwakura feels all the more divine amid the snow.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: within Fukushima Prefecture. Access by car is convenient. - The grounds are quiet, so you can take your time in prayer. - Before the iwakura, press your hands together quietly and treat it carefully as a sacred place. - The surrounding nature is rich, so it pairs well with a stroll.

A Quick Tip

The iwakura is a sacred rock said to house a deity. Do not touch or climb it carelessly, and pray quietly with respect. Choosing a time with few people lets you spend it in clearer air.