One of the most important Shinto shrines in the Tohoku region, with a history stretching back more than a thousand years. The grounds are spread across a wooded hillside and feature several beautifully decorated shrine buildings, stone lanterns, and views over the surrounding area.

*You can enter the shrine from several different locations, but I recommend either The East Sando of Shiogama Shrine or The Stone Torii of Shiogama Shrine. I personally prefer starting at The Stone Torii of Shiogama Shrine, as it features a beautiful stone staircase with massive torii gates at the bottom. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the climb is fairly steep and takes a bit of time and energy. If you’re arriving by car, it’s probably easier to approach the shrine from the main parking lot instead.