Takaya Shrine (Inazumi Taisha)

Overview

Takaya Shrine sits majestically atop Mount Inazumi (404m) in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture. While its founding date remains unknown, its inclusion in the "Engishiki Jinmyocho" (a record of shrines compiled during the Heian period) as "Takaya Shrine, Karita County, Sanuki Province," confirms its existence before at least the Heian period. Takaya Shrine is a historic shrine that has long been a center of faith for the local people, and is one of the 24 Sanuki-koku Engishiki-style shrines. The enshrined deities are Ninigi-no-Mikoto, Sakyahime-no-Mikoto, and Ukemochi-no-Mikoto. Ninigi-no-Mikoto is the grandson of Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestral deity of the Japanese Imperial Family. Sakyahime-no-Mikoto is the daughter of Oyamatsumi-no-Kami and the wife of Ninigi-no-Mikoto. Ukemochi-no-Mikoto is the deity of food. Originally located at the summit, the main shrine was moved to the mountainside around 1600, and then to the foot of the mountain in 1760. However, fearing divine retribution, villagers rebuilt the main hall at the original summit location in 1831. A roughly 6km forest road leading from the prefectural road at the foot of the mountain to the shrine was opened in 2010, with a short 150m walk from the parking area to the shrine. A traditional mountain path, known as the 17-cho ascent from Shimogu Shrine through Naka-no-miya also exists. A large, unmovable rock sits in the middle of the stone steps below. From a viewpoint on the north side facing Nio, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea. Takaya Shrine, cherished for its history and natural beauty, continues to be a beloved and revered site. Be sure to visit!