🗺️ Katori Jingu香取神宮

Katori Jingu is the head shrine of approximately 400 Katori shrines across the country, dedicated to the deity Futsunushi no Mikoto, as recorded in the ancient Japanese mythology "Kuniyuzuri." It has deep historical ties to the imperial family and is revered as a guardian deity of the nation. Generally, visitors come to pray for family safety, guidance in their livelihoods, maritime protection, and the fulfillment of wishes, and it continues to be highly respected by the people today. The ancient shrine, with its long history, houses a vast collection of treasures, with over 200 designated as cultural properties by the prefecture alone. Among these, the national treasure "Umibutsu Budō no Kagami," one of Japan's three famous mirrors, and the important cultural property "Kozeto Komainu," which is featured on the 250 yen regular postage stamp, are particularly well-known. Additionally, the grand main hall with a cypress bark roof and the traditional Japanese-style gate adorned with vermillion lacquer are also designated as important cultural properties. Katori Jingu holds the "Shinkō-sai" festival every year on April 15. This festival has been celebrated for over 800 years, with around 200 participants (local residents living near the shrine) dressed in Heian period attire elegantly parading around the shrine. There is also a once-every-12-years event called "Shikinen Shinkō-sai," which is renowned as the largest in Chiba Prefecture. The festival features thousands of participants parading through the city, and the sight of the shining sacred boat carrying the deity floating on the Tone River is also a must-see.

The deity of the guardian of the nation, Kinjinsuke no Ōkami, is the main deity of worship. There are over 200 items designated as cultural properties by the prefecture in the collection. Every year on April 15th, the lively "Shinkō Matsuri" is held, featuring a parade dressed in clothing from the Heian period.