Katori Shrine

Katori Shrine (香取神宮), located in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan, is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in the Kanto region. It is dedicated to Futsunushi-no-ookami, the god of victory, and is revered as one of the Tokusanjin (東国三社), three major shrines of eastern Japan, along with Kashima Jingu and Ikisu Shrine.

The shrine, founded in the 7th century, is renowned for its beautiful architecture, including its ornate gate, main hall, and honden (inner shrine). The shrine’s buildings have been designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government.

Katori Shrine is also famous for its traditional festivals, including the Katori Matsuri, which takes place every year in May. The festival features traditional dances and music, as well as a parade of portable shrines and floats.

One of the most interesting features of Katori Shrine is the Nade-ushi (or “petting cow”), a bronze statue of a cow that is believed to bring good luck to those who stroke its back. The statue is located near the entrance to the shrine and is a popular spot for visitors.

Visitors to Katori Shrine can also explore the surrounding area, which includes the Sawara district (佐原), a well-preserved town with Edo-period architecture and a canal system known as “Koedo” (Little Edo). The area is also known for its traditional crafts such as pottery, papermaking, and indigo dyeing.

Within the shrine grounds, there is also a sacred stone called the Kaname-ishi (要石), believed to suppress a giant catfish that causes earthquakes. The shrine also houses a national treasure, a straight sword (chokuto).

Katori Shrine is easily accessible by train and bus from Narita Airport and Tokyo.

Getting there

By Train

• From JR Sawara Station: About 10 minutes by taxi
• From Narita Station: Take the JR Narita Line bound for Choshi to Katori Station (30 minutes)

By Bus

• From JR Sawara Station: Take a bus bound for Katori Shrine (about 15 minutes)

By Car

• About 2 minutes from Sawara-Katori IC on the Higashi-Kanto Expressway
• About 25 minutes from Narita Airport using the expressway (860 yen toll)
• About 45 minutes from Narita Airport using toll-free roads

By Highway Bus

• From Tokyo Station or Hamamatsu-cho Station: Take the Keisei Bus bound for Choshi via Sawara, get off at Sawara Katori bus stop (15-minute walk to shrine)

Katori Shrine is located at 697-1 Katori, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture. The shrine grounds are always open and admission is free.

Details

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 478-57-3211
Address	1697 Katori, Chiba 287-0017
Official Website	https://katori-jingu.or.jp/