Ise Jingu: A place you can't miss when visiting Mie Prefecture
Ise Shrine is a sacred place where you can feel the heart of Japan. By visiting, you can experience the deep history and culture of Japan.
Ise Jingu (Ise Jingu) is one of the most important and sacred shrines in Japan, located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture. Deeply rooted in Japanese history and culture, it enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the guardian deity of the Imperial family. Its history spans more than 2000 years, and millions of worshippers visit it every year.
Ise Jingu is divided into two main shrines, Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine), with Amaterasu Omikami enshrined in the Inner Shrine and Toyouke Omikami enshrined in the Outer Shrine. The Outer Shrine is located about 6 kilometers away from the Inner Shrine, and it is traditional to visit it first.
One of the unique features of Ise Jingu is the ceremony called "Shikinen Sengu". This is a ceremony in which the buildings of the shrine are rebuilt with new wood and the deity is transferred to a new shrine once every 20 years. This tradition has continued for about 1300 years and contributes to the inheritance of Japanese architectural techniques and culture.
Ise Jingu is surrounded by rich nature, and beautiful forests and rivers spread across its vast grounds. In particular, the approach to the Inner Shrine is surrounded by beautiful cedar trees that exude an ancient, sacred atmosphere. The scenery of Ise Jingu, which values harmony with nature, deeply moves visitors.
When visiting Ise Jingu, it is common to start worshiping at the Outer Shrine and then proceed to the Inner Shrine. When worshiping, it is important to follow the correct worship etiquette. Purify your hands and mouth at the Chozuya (purification fountain), bow once when passing through the torii gate, and perform the two bows, two claps, one bow in front of the shrine.
Various religious ceremonies and festivals are held at Ise Jingu throughout the year. Among them, the Kanname Festival is particularly important, and is a ceremony in which newly harvested rice is offered to Amaterasu Omikami. In addition to this, there are other seasonal events, so you can enjoy different charms every time you visit.
Basic information
- Address: 1 Ujidate-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture
- Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM (varies depending on the season)
- Access: 15 minutes by bus from JR Ise-shi Station
- Admission fee: Free
