Kirishima Jingu Shrine [Kagoshima]

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine summary】

Kirishima Jingu Shrine was built in 540, the first year of the reign of Emperor Kinmei, according to various theories. The shrine was originally built on Takachiho Peak in the 6th century and has been moved four times.

In Japanese mythology, Ninigi no Mikoto descended from the heavens to Takachiho Peak to rule over the Land of Nakatsu in the Reed Plains. It is said that he thrust a spear into the summit of the mountain at that time. The deity is Amenagishi Kuninigishi Amatsuhitakahikohono-Ninigi no Mikoto, or Ninigi no Mikoto.

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine road approaching a shrine】

After proceeding through the second torii gate, there is a large open area. There is a viewing plaza and a shrine office built in 1930. It does not seem to be in use now.

The third torii gate can be seen on the wide open approach.

It was a straight line from the third bird to the worship hall, and the austere atmosphere of the mountain was nice.

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine「Kirishima Measa」】

After passing through the approach to the shrine, you will see a cedar tree estimated to be over 800 years old, 38 meters tall and with a trunk circumference of about 7 meters, it is indeed a magnificent sacred tree. It is said to be the ancestor of cedars in the southern Kyushu area.

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine main shrine】

When it was founded in the 6th century, it was located on Takachiho peak, but was frequently destroyed by fire in eruptions, and has been moved four times. The current shrine building was donated by Kagoshima feudal lord Shimazu Yoshitaka and was erected in 1715 (Shoutoku 5).

The main shrine, the hall of offerings, and the hall of worship are national treasures.

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine kagura hall (at a shrine)】

It was built in the fall of 2005 to commemorate the 1,460th anniversary of the Kirishima Jingu shrine. It is used not only for Shinto rituals but also for wedding ceremonies.

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine  Yama Shrine】

The Yama Shrine is located behind the main shrine of Kirishima Jingu Shrine. The deity is Oyamatsumi.

Although there is only a small shrine after passing through a simple wooden torii gate, one can strongly feel the source of Shintoism and nature worship.

It would be a shame to come to Kirishima Jingu Shrine and not visit this shrine. Despite the liveliness of the main shrine, it was very quiet, and I felt the strong faith of the local people.

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine Nearby attractions】

Takachiho Farm, Kirishima Jingu Moto-miya Shrine, Ten no Gyakuhoko, Kirishima Higashi Shrine

【Kirishima Jingu Shrine Access】

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Katori Jingu Shrine [Chiba] Kashima Jingu Shrine [Ibaraki] Atsuta Jingu Shrine [Aichi] Meiji Jingu Shrine [Tokyo]