Imamiya-jinja, shrine in Kanuma, Tochigi
Imamiya-jinja is a Shinto-style shrine in Kanuma with traditional wooden buildings situated on quiet, tree-surrounded grounds. The grounds include a main prayer hall, visitor areas, and several smaller shrines dedicated to different deities, with old camphor trees and stone lanterns completing the traditional Japanese architectural setting.
The shrine was founded in 1534 by Tsunafusa Mibu to protect the nearby Kanuma-jo Castle and watch over the local population. After the Mibu family's decline, it was rebuilt in 1608 and then served travelers and merchants passing along the busy post road as a place of refuge.
The shrine carries a name connected to local protective deities and reflects the close bond between Kanuma residents and this sacred space. Visitors witness everyday traditions here: people write wishes on small wooden tablets, bow twice, and clap their hands before praying, showing rituals that have shaped generations of locals.
The shrine is open daily from morning through late afternoon and admission is free; free parking nearby makes a visit convenient. The grounds are about a 5-minute walk from Kanuma Station and are easily reached whether you arrive by car or public transport.
A camphor tree on the grounds is believed to be over 2000 years old and is revered as sacred; visitors circle it once in the belief that it fulfills wishes and brings health. This local tradition gives the shrine a special spiritual power that has endured across centuries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
