Legends say Katori Shrine’s foundation dates back to 643 BC. It stands as a testament to Japan’s ancient spiritual heritage. This is Katori Shrine, one of the most venerable sites in Shinto lore.
Katori Shrine, along with Ise Shrine and Kashima Shrine, once held the exclusive title of “Jingu”. This title signifies a deep connection to the Imperial House of Japan. Imagine the weight of history imbued in these grounds.
The kami Futsunushi-no-okami is enshrined here. He is a deity prominent in Japanese mythology. Futsunushi appears in many famous stories. Katori Shrine is the head shrine of approximately 400 Katori shrines. These are mainly located in the Kanto region.
Consider the main festival held annually on April 14. Every 12 years, a grander three-day festival occurs at Katori Shrine. These events showcase the enduring traditions of the shrine.
Picture the shrine situated on Kikko-san. This small mountain resembles a turtle’s shell. The ascent is lined with dense vegetation and pagoda-style lamps. This gives the impression of entering another world as you approach Katori Shrine.
Notice the trees allowed to grow freely here. Unlike manicured shrines like Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, Katori Shrine embraces natural growth. These massive trunks symbolize the far-reaching history of Katori Shrine.
The main hall, or Honden, has been consistently maintained. It keeps close to its original form. Take a stroll around the grounds and appreciate the architectural designs that define Japanese shrines. The Honden of Katori Shrine was built in 1700. The fifth ruler of the Tokugawa shogunate, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, built it.
Further back, discover the Oku-no-Miya. This deep shrine and the grave of Iizasa Chouisai Ienao are special places. He perfected his sword techniques here. They became known as Katori Shinto-ryu. The Oku-no-Miya symbolizes new beginnings of a challenging nature.
Admire the Tower Gate built in 1700. It features calligraphy by Admiral Tōgō Heihachirō. The Kōmon Cherry Tree stands in front of the gate. It is said that Tokugawa Mitsukuni planted this tree.
The shrine possesses a National Treasure. It is the Kaijū Budō Kyō, also known as the Sea Beast Glazed Mirror. Katori Shrine also has Important Cultural Properties. Among them are the Koseto Guardian Lion-Dog and the Sōryū Kyō, the Double Dragon Mirror. Over 200 cultural properties designated by Chiba Prefecture and Japan also are here.
There is also a sacred tree on the south side of the shrine building. This giant camphor tree is said to be 1,000 years old. It has a circumference of 10 meters. Hundreds of cherry trees grace the horse-riding ground behind the shrine.
The vast shrine precinct is known as Katori-no-Mori or Turtle Shell Mountain. This natural monument is home to a dense grove of old Japanese cedar trees. Katori Shrine is more than a historical site. It is a living testament to Japan’s spiritual and cultural identity.