Katori Shrine

Futsunushi-no-o-Kami written in Japanese mythology, ”Kuniyuzuri”, is enshrined as the Deity and this shrine is the head shrine of about 400 Katori Shrines around the country. Connected deeply with Imperial Household since ancient times, it has been respected as the deity spiritually protecting of the state. Local common people have continued having their strong faith and visit to pray for the safety of one’s family, thriving industry, protection of maritime traffic, and fulfillment of wishes.

The amount of treasures owned by this historically honorable shrine is huge in which is more valuable than prefectural designated cultural properties is over 200. Among them, “Kaiju Budo Kyo (bronze mirror with a design of animals and grapes)", one of Japan’s three famous mirrors, and “Koseto no Komainu (a pair of guardian dogs by old Seto Pottery)”, of which this picture was used for a definitive postal stamp of 250 yen. The magnificent Main Hall with cypress bark roof and the Tower Gate lacquered with vermilion color and built-in pure traditional Japanese style are also designated as the Important Cultural properties.

“Shinko-Sai festival” is held every April 15th. This festival is so elegant and has continued for over 800 years in which parishioners dress in the same way of the Heian period and walk around the shrine.
“Shikinen Zinko-Sai festival” is held once in 12 years at the same time of the year of Horse. These sceneries are described as gorgeous and exciting and some say that there is no comparison with the other festivals held in Chiba Prefecture. Thousands of parishioners are walking around within the City while the God is enjoying boating in “Gozabune (the ship decorated for the god only)'' floating on the Tonegawa river, these spectacles are impressively worth seeing.