Map
Japan's oldest shrine, enshrining Izanagi and Izanami—the divine creators of Japan itself. Located on Awaji Island, the site of the 'birth of the islands' in ancient mythology, it is revered as the sacred birthplace of the Japanese nation.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Izanagi no Mikoto; Izanami no Mikoto
- Founded
- Age of the gods (Japan's oldest shrine)
- Annual Festival
- Reitaisai (April 22)
History & Origins
The oldest shrine mentioned in the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), this is where the supreme creator deity Izanagi is said to have spent his final years after the act of creating the land and the gods. It serves as the ichinomiya of Awaji Province.
Highlights
The entwined camphor trees (estimated to be 900 years old), representing an ideal married couple; the main hall (Important Cultural Property); and the sacred trees of the precincts. The atmosphere is calm, sacred, and deeply serene.
Visitor Guide
Accessible from Kobe or Naruto by crossing to Awaji Island, best reached by car. The surrounding area features the Awaji Hana-Haku botanical garden and other sightseeing spots.
Best Season
Visits are welcome year-round.
Attributes
Annual Events
- January
Okayuurasai (Rice Porridge Divination Festival)
A ritual held on Koshogatsu (January 15). The year's agricultural fortunes are divined by how the porridge cooks.
- April
Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)
Held on April 22, this is the shrine's largest festival. Many worshippers gather to praise the virtues of Izanagi no Mikoto and Izanami no Mikoto.
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