Rokuden Jinja Shrine

Overview

Rokuden Jinja Shrine sits in Kumamoto City's Minami Ward, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Gankaiyama (Kiwara Mountain), the same mountain as Chōju-ji Temple (Kiwara Fudo). Its former ranking was that of a village shrine (gōsha). Rokuden Jinja boasts a long history, starting in 1178 (Jishō 2), when Taira Shigemori, son of Taira Kiyomori, invited a sacred spirit from Rokusonō Ōgongen in Musashi Province, his personal place of prayer. There are also theories that it was founded by Minamoto Tametomo (Chinzei Hachirō), who built a castle on Kiwara Mountain, or by the Kiwara clan who ruled the area in the late Heian period. Rokuden Jinja's gate became the first structure in Kumamoto Prefecture to be designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1907 (Meiji 40). Known as the "nail-less gate," its intricate construction, assembled without a single nail, showcases remarkable craftsmanship. Its imposing presence, rich history, and beautiful vermillion paint are truly awe-inspiring. The enshrined deities of Rokuden Jinja are Aso Daimyōjin, Amaterasu Ōmikami, Haniyasuhime no Kami, Suwa Daimyōjin, Hikawa Daimyōjin, and Inari Daimyōjin. The shrine's name, meaning "Six Shrine Hall," comes from its dedication to these six deities. Besides the gate, the grounds are filled with historic buildings, including the haiden (worship hall) and honden (main hall), providing a tranquil atmosphere for serene worship. Numerous smaller shrines (massha) are scattered throughout the grounds, including Yado Ōkami, dedicated to childbirth and safe delivery, and Sugawara Jinja, dedicated to scholarship, offering visitors the chance to seek blessings from various deities. Rokuden Jinja offers a peaceful retreat where you can connect with history and find a moment of calm.