About
In the tranquil area of Itakura Town, Ora District, Gunma Prefecture, the office (shamusho) of Raiden Shrine stands as a place that welcomes visitors across the flow of time. Founded in the 6th year of Empress Suiko's reign (598 AD), this shrine prides itself on its long history and deep faith as the head shrine of the many Raiden Shrines scattered across the Kanto region.
In front of the shrine office sits a stone statue of a catfish called "Namazu-san." This catfish is believed to ward off earthquakes, restore health, improve eyesight, and inspire confidence. Visitors can be seen gently touching it and making wishes. In the Itakura area, river fish, including catfish, are cherished as gifts from the gods, and catfish dishes are enjoyed as a local specialty.
Behind the shrine office, lush greenery spreads out, including zelkova, Japanese nutmeg-yew, hackberry, and white oak trees. About 1.17 hectares of this area are designated as a Gunma Prefecture Green Space Environmental Conservation Area. The scenery woven by nature in each of the four seasons soothes the hearts of visitors and is wrapped in a sacred atmosphere.
Near the shrine office stands the subsidiary Hachimangu Inari Shrine, built in the 16th year of the Tenbun era (1547) during the Muromachi period. It is designated as a National Important Cultural Property as the oldest wooden structure in the prefecture. The beautiful curves of its roof continue to captivate people across the ages.
The shrine office also distributes charms and talismans for protection from lightning and misfortune, family safety, and more. Visitors select them with their own wishes in mind. In particular, Raiden Shrine’s talismans and charms have long been known, and many people seek them during the first shrine visit of the year (hatsumode) and during the annual Raiden Grand Festival.
Around the shrine office are various spots rich in history and legend, such as the stone statue of Benzaiten and Raiden Marsh. Benzaiten is worshiped as the goddess of wealth, music and the arts, beauty and longevity, and good fortune. On the second Sunday of July, many worshippers come to celebrate the Day of Offering Beautiful Eggs.
The Raiden Shrine office is not just a reception window, but a sacred space where history, culture, and nature harmonize. Visitors calm their minds here, feel the breath of the gods, and engrave their wishes in their hearts. The faith and traditions that transcend time are still deeply rooted here today.