Kameari Katori Shrine
亀有香取神社
Tokyo · Katsushika
Katori Victory
Kanpei Taisha / Jingu
Ichinomiya (Shimosa Province)
Katori Shrine
香取神宮
/ Katori Jingu
Admission
Free (Treasure Hall: 300 JPY)
Goshuin
500 JPY
Access
30 min walk
Hours
Open daily
Overview
Katori Jingu is the twin shrine to Kashima Jingu, together forming the sacred pair that guarded ancient Japan's eastern frontier. Enshrining Futsunushi-no-kami, the deity of swords and lightning, it was one of only three shrines in all of Japan given the prestigious 'Jingu' title in the ancient Engishiki records. The shrine has deep connections to martial arts, and many kenjutsu (swordsmanship) schools trace their spiritual lineage here. It is the head of approximately 400 Katori shrines, most located in the Kanto region. Set in an ancient cedar forest, the approach to the shrine has a timeless quality that transports visitors back centuries.
History
Founding
📜According to tradition
-643 [神武天皇18年]
Traditional founding dated to 643 BC. One of only three 'Jingu' shrines in the Engishiki alongside Ise and Kashima. Head shrine of approximately 400 Katori shrines nationwide. The shrine's deity Futsunushi was sent with Takemikazuchi to pacify the land in the Kuni-yuzuri myth.
1700📄Documented
Current main hall constructed by Tokugawa Tsunayoshi
Enshrined Deities
⛩
Blessings
Shrine Network
Katori head
Head shrine of approximately 400 branch shrines nationwide.
Did You Know?
💡
The Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu, one of the oldest extant martial arts schools in Japan (founded c. 1447), takes its name from this shrine.
Source: documented
💡
Together with Kashima, Katori formed what the ancients called the 'divine eastern frontier' protecting the Yamato heartland.
Source: tradition
Practical Information
Location Coordinates
35.8850, 140.5278
Physical Address
1697-1 Katori, Katori, Chiba
千葉県香取市香取1697-1
Historical Province
Shimosa / Kazusa / Awa
Access
Katori Station (JR Narita Line)
30 min walk
Hours
Open daily
Bus
Bus from Sawara Station (15 min)
Best Times to Visit
springautumn
Foreign Language Support
English signage
Accessibility
Partial
Official Website
https://katori-jingu.or.jp/
Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.
Why This Shrine
One of Japan's three ancient Jingu shrines and birthplace of Japan's oldest martial arts traditions. Essential for understanding the spiritual foundations of Japanese martial culture.
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Learn More About Shinto Shrines
Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team
What is Katori Shrine?
Katori Jingu is the twin shrine to Kashima Jingu, together forming the sacred pair that guarded ancient Japan's eastern frontier. Enshrining Futsunushi-no-kami, the deity of swords and lightning, it was one of only three shrines in all of Japan given the prestigious 'Jingu' title in the ancient Engishiki records. The shrine has deep connections to martial arts, and many kenjutsu (swordsmanship) schools trace their spiritual lineage here. It is the head of approximately 400 Katori shrines, most located in the Kanto region. Set in an ancient cedar forest, the approach to the shrine has a timeless quality that transports visitors back centuries.
Where is Katori Shrine located?
Katori Shrine is located in Katori, Chiba. The full address is: 1697-1 Katori, Katori, Chiba.
What deities are enshrined at Katori Shrine?
The enshrined deities are: Futsunushi no Kami.
What blessings can you pray for at Katori Shrine?
Katori Shrine is known for: Victory, Martial Arts, Family Safety, New Beginnings.
How do I get to Katori Shrine?
The nearest station is Katori Station (JR Narita Line). It is about a 30-minute walk from the station. Bus from Sawara Station (15 min)