Kanamura Wake Ikazuchi Shrine


Kanamura Wake Ikazuchi Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan. It is also called "Raijin-sama" and "Kanamura-sama" by locals. It is the second largest shrine in Tsukuba, after Mt. Tsukuba Shrine, and it is one of the three major Raijin shrines in the Kanto area. It was founded on March 15, 931, during the reign of Emperor Suzaku, by a feudal lord named Toyoda-ko. It enshrines the thunder deity Kanamura-wake-ikazuchi-no-kami. This deity is said to have a strong side, one that releases thunder to correct wrongs, and a gentle side, one that releases rain so that all living things can grow. It is especially popular with people seeking good fortune in agriculture. Festivals are held at this shrine in January, April, and November.