Igami-jinja Shrine in Odawara

Admire the beautiful carvings

Peter Sidell Oct 27, 2016 - 1 min read

I think this lion has a float for a fisherman's net, representing Odawara's seafaring heritage

A closer view from the front of the main hall

Amazing detail on the carving under the roof of the main hall

An ancient stone marker by the main worship hall

Ancient lichen-covered wolf-dogs by a side shrine

The main worship hall in its peaceful forest setting

A little statue and marker on the walk up the slope

Odawara City is good about providing interesting information

Across the railway tracks about a kilometer south of Odawara Castle, Igami-jinja is an atmospheric shinto shrine, with a peaceful forest setting despite being in the middle of a busy town. It's definitely worth seeking out to see the unusual, beautifully detailed wooden carvings under the eaves of the main worship hall, angels, demons, flying birds and guardian lions. There are also some interesting ancient stone markers and statues, and a view of the ornate interior of the hall.

Peter Sidell @peter.sidell

I came to Japan from Manchester, England in 2003, and have travelled a lot since then, around Japan and in Asia. When I'm not working, I write satire and perform stand-up comedy in and around Tokyo. Check YouTube for a taste.