貝洲加藤神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Kaijo Kato Shrine is a small Shinto temple in Yatsushiro dedicated to the historical figure Kato Kiyomasa, known for land reclamation efforts in the region. The grounds contain a traditional wooden main building, subsidiary shrines honoring sea deities, stone lanterns lining the pathway, and purification basins for visitors.
The shrine was founded in 1822 after Ryohei Kanogoki successfully reclaimed land from wetlands and invited Kato Kiyomasa's spirit for protection of the new territory. In the late 1800s it was formally recognized as a Shinto village shrine after government efforts separated this religion from Buddhist practices.
The inner shrines honor sea deities and are visited by locals seeking protection for fishing and harvests, reflecting farming traditions tied to the land. Kagura dance performances during festivals connect these spiritual practices to community gatherings and seasonal celebrations.
The grounds are open to visitors and feature a straightforward path beginning at a large stone torii gate, with hand-washing basins available before entering the main building. Most visits take 30 to 45 minutes, allowing time for quiet reflection and walking through the grounds at an easy pace.
The shrine honors Kato Kiyomasa, a 16th-century military leader remembered for water management and land development, as a protector of human-made landscapes rather than just a spiritual figure. This link between a warrior and agricultural protection is an uncommon combination in Japanese shrine traditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
