Kibitsu Jinja

Map

History & Origins

Its founding is attributed to the reign of Emperor Nintoku, and it is ranked as a Myojin Taisha in the Engishiki, compiled in 927 in the Heian period. The present National Treasure main hall was built in 1425 (the 32nd year of Oei) in the Muromachi period on the orders of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. It has long been worshipped as the chief guardian shrine of Kibi Province and is also known for the 'Nanajugozen-sue Shinji' ritual, one of the three great festivals of Okayama Prefecture.

Highlights

A highlight of the grounds is the long corridor, 398 meters in total length. It is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and simply walking the corridor wraps you in the solemn atmosphere of an ancient shrine. The 'Narukama Shinji' is a special ritual that divines fortune by the sound of a cauldron, and it appears in 'Ugetsu Monogatari', an Edo-period collection of ghost stories. It is held every day except Friday.

Visitor Guide

It is about a 7-minute walk from Kibitsu Station on the JR Momotaro Line (Kibi Line). A course by bicycle along the Kibiji Cycling Road, associated with the Momotaro legend of Okayama, is also popular.

Best Season

In spring (March-April) cherry blossoms color the grounds, and the spring festival in May is also worth seeing. The Kibiji area is also beautiful when the red spider lilies bloom in late September.

Blessings

Annual Events

• May

  Shunki Taisai (Spring Grand Festival)

  A spring grand festival held on the second Sunday of May. A festival to pray for a bountiful harvest of the five grains and the well-being of the parishioners, in which the Shichijugozen Sue Shinji is performed.

• October

  Shuki Taisai (Autumn Grand Festival)

  An autumn grand festival held on the second Sunday of October. Rituals are performed to give thanks for the harvest and to pray for a good harvest next year.

Travel Plan

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