The Kashima Shrine is the oldest Shinto shrine in the Kanto region. This shrine is located in Ibaraki Prefecture and is said to have been built in 600 BC, the same year that Emperor Jimmu ascended the throne.
The shrine is dedicated to Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, the Shinto god of thunder and war. Takemikazuchi-no-Okami is associated with the martial arts and many dojos across Japan display scrolls with his image. Kashima-jingu has been visited by Japanese warlords since the beginning of recorded history.
Many events are held in the shrine throughout the year. The biggest festival, however, is the New Year festival. Over 600,000 people from all over Japan will attend the event in the first three days of January.
A 10-minute walk from Kashima-Jingu station. 2-hour bus ride from Tokyo Station Yaesu exit to Kashima Shrine via Keisei Bus.