Katori Shrine

Atmospheric and impressive head shrine

Katori Shrines are scattered all over Japan, but this is the head shrine where Futanushi no Okami, a patron god of warriors, is enshrined. The shrine is in a gorgeous hillside setting with elegant halls and gates. The buildings vary in age. The tower gate is from the 19th century, the main shrine from the 18th century. Both are excellent examples of their styles. The shrine site also has a kaname, or keystone, which is said to quell earthquakes. I found fascinating the shrine treasures. The shrine holds a bronze mirror, one of three famous ones in Japan, with a delicate design of sea creatures and foliage.