Temples and Shrines in Okayama Prefecture, Japan

Ankoku-ji

Okayama

Open now

A Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple of the Myoshinji branch founded in the 14th century. Known for its beautiful Sekirinen garden and wellmaintained grounds. The temple features traditional architecture and seasonal foliage, attracting visitors yearround.

Why you should go

The Ankoku-ji system expanded under the Ashikaga shogunate, with about 60 Ankoku-ji temples established across Japan in the 14th century.
Ankoku-ji is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple of the Myoshinji branch, a major lineage within Japanese Zen.
"Ankoku-ji" can mean "Temple for National Pacification," reflecting the historical Ankoku-ji temple network.

1203 Odanaka, Tsuyama, Okayama 708-0006, Japan+81 84-982-3207

Hazanono

Open now

Hanazono Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine in central Shinjuku, Tokyo, founded in the mid17th century and long regarded as the guardian shrine of the district. Tucked behind modern buildings, it is known for seasonal festivals, cherry blossoms, and a lively...

Why you should go

Plan around festival dates if you prefer a lively atmosphere: Hanazono Shrine is known for seasonal festivals and its annual Tori-no-Ichi market.
Visit during cherry blossom season if you want shrine scenery with sakura; it's specifically noted as a popular time here.
Hanazono Shrine was founded in the mid-17th century and has long served as Shinjuku district's guardian shrine.

5-chōme-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, JapanWebsite +81332095265

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Shrine

Saidai-ji Kannon-in

Okayama

Founded in 751, this ancient Buddhist temple enshrines Senju Kannon and hosts the famous Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival) each February. The temple features historic structures including a threestory pagoda, Niomon Gate, and a Korean bell.

Why you should go

Plan extra time in February if you want to see the temple's best-known event, the Hadaka Matsuri festival.
Saidai-ji Kannon-in was founded in 751 and is an ancient Buddhist temple dedicated to Senju Kannon (Thousand-armed Kannon).
If visiting in February, expect major crowds during Hadaka Matsuri (Eyo); go outside festival dates for a quieter temple visit.

3-chōme-8-8 Saidaijinaka, Higashi-ku, Okayama 704-8116, JapanWebsite +81 86-942-2058

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Temple

Okayama Jinja

Okayama

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Okayama Jinja is a Shinto shrine in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, in western Japan’s Chūgoku region. It enshrines local kami and hosts New Year and seasonal matsuri. Typical features include a torii, honden, and stone lanterns. Okayama is noted for...

Why you should go

Look for the historic torii gate that survived wartime fires and holds strong spiritual significance. Take time to read the ema votive tablets where locals write prayers, often featuring Momotaro peach motifs, along with wishes for exams
Parking is available on the shrine grounds with space for approximately ten vehicles, making it convenient if you're combining your visit with nearby Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden, both within walking distance.
Visit during seasonal festivals or special days like Ichinichi Manbai to see kagura dances and families celebrating Shichi-Go-San. However, nearby food festivals may create a less traditional atmosphere.

2-33 Ishizekicho, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0813, JapanWebsite +810862874111

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Shrine

Shiba Daijingu

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1 Goshuin

Shiba Daijingu (Shiba Shinmeigu) is a Shinto shrine in Minato, Tokyo, founded in 1005 and dedicated to Amaterasu Ōmikami and Toyouke Ōmikami, linked to Ise Grand Shrine. Rebuilt after 1945, it hosts the September Daradara Matsuri and a historic ginger fair.

1 Chome-12-7 Shibadaimon, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0012, JapanWebsite +81334314802

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Shrine

Okayama Prefecture

Cities & Wards

Okayama

Top places to visit in Okayama Prefecture

Ankoku-ji

Why you should go

Hazanono

Why you should go

Saidai-ji Kannon-in

Why you should go

Okayama Jinja

Why you should go

Shiba Daijingu

Cities & Wards

Okayama

Top places to visit in Okayama Prefecture

Ankoku-ji

Why you should go

Hazanono

Why you should go

Saidai-ji Kannon-in

Why you should go

Okayama Jinja

Why you should go

Shiba Daijingu

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