Explore Japanese Temples and Churches in America

Temples are a not so common thing for Americans to visit, however it is a must-visit place if you want to find peace, quiet and Zen. Here are Japanese Temples and Shrines you can visit in America.


Shinto Shrine of Shusse Inari

A shrine for the Guardian Spirit of Good Fortune, Success, and Happiness. Although they do not have a permanent shrine yet, they are located in Los Angeles, California. Shinto Shrine is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
The Shusse Inari Shrine believes that following the traditional way of living, the world will become a place where it values nature and protects the creatures in it. The Shrine is a way to introduce nature-friendly, eco-conscious, traditional Japanese ways of living in order for the next generations to enjoy nature and protect it as we do.

Photo taken from Little Tokyo

Shinto Shrine’s main deity are 宇迦之御魂神 (Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami). A deity of productivity, business, food, and harvests. They also offer ceremonies; from wishing for recovery from illness, health and safety, passing examinations, fertility and many more! They also offer Shinto Items like: Ofuda, a sacred item that should be properly cared for and give offerings for blessings to come or also known as talismans, and Omamori, japanese amulets.
To know more about Shinto Shrine of Shusse Inari in Los Angeles, check out their website: https://shintoinari.org


Tsubaki Grand Shrine of America

Tsubaki America Shrine, located in Seattle, Washington, is a branch of Tsubaki Grand Shrine, located in Mie prefecture in Japan, and is a Jinja Shinto Shrine. The Shinto Shrine is surrounded by an environment that can make you feel deeply refreshed and in harmony with Divine Nature. Formal Visits are welcome to Tsubaki Grand Shrine of America and staff can even conduct the Oharae, also known as a purification ceremony, and other Shinto Ceremonies for individuals, families, groups, and businesses.

Photo taken from Tsubaki Grand Shrine of America

If you have any questions or would love to book a ceremony, check them out at https://tsubakishrine.org


Written by: Issa Calipay

Issa Calipay is a digital marketing intern of PS Media Enterprise. She is an incoming 4th Year student of Advertising and Public Relations from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sta. Mesa.