Guida
Moto Ise Kono Jinja is a highly prestigious Shinto shrine located in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture. Known as the 'Home of Ise Grand Shrine,' it holds immense historical significance as the ancestral site related to the origins of the most sacred Shinto shrine in Japan. Situated near the breathtaking Amanogata (Amanohashidate), the shrine's grounds are filled with a serene and solemn atmosphere that offers visitors a sense of deep spiritual peace.
This land has been revered as a sacred site since ancient times. Historical records suggest that the deities worshipped at Ise Grand Shrine originated from this very location, making it a vital historical hub known as 'Moto Ise.' During the Nara period, it served as the primary shrine of the Tango Province, and its high status has been maintained for centuries, appearing in historical texts such as the 'Engishiki' during the Heian period.
The shrine grounds feature a beautifully organized layout of the main hall (Honden), worship hall (Haiden), and various smaller shrines. The architectural design of the main hall evokes a powerful sense of history, and walking through the grounds allows you to feel the solemnity unique to this sacred space. Its proximity to the Amanogata sandbar creates a harmonious landscape where nature and spirituality meet. Visitors can also purchase sacred amulets (Omamori) and charms at the shrine office as mementos of their visit.
Opening hours vary by season. From February to November, the shrine is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From December to January, the closing time is earlier, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Please note that special hours apply during the New Year period (Dec 31, Jan 1–3). For example, on New Year's Eve, it opens from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM, and on New Year's Day, it is open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. We recommend checking the latest information before your visit as closing times change seasonally.
Kono Jinja offers unique opportunities to witness traditional Shinto rituals. A particularly rare experience is the 'Moto Ise no Mai' (the Dance of Moto Ise), a unique Kagura dance performed at the shrine (on full moon or new moon days, it is known as 'Musuhi no Mai'). These performances can be experienced by making a prior reservation for a formal ritual at the worship hall. Additionally, visitors can request formal Shinto blessings (Gokito) and purification ceremonies led by Shinto priests, providing a profound way to connect with Japanese traditional etiquette.
Kono Jinja is located very close to Amanogata, one of the three most scenic views in Japan. Combining a visit to the shrine with Amanogata sightseeing allows you to fully enjoy the history and natural beauty of the northern Kyoto (Tango) region. The surrounding area features the beautiful coastline of Miyazu City and charming historical streets, making it an ideal route for a cultural journey.
When visiting, please show respect to this sacred site. If you plan to participate in formal rituals or blessings, it is recommended to avoid casual attire such as T-shirts, tank tops, denim shorts, or overly casual clothing. If you are driving, please note that a preservation cooperation fee may be required for parking (approx. 800 JPY for cars/motorcycles and 1,800 JPY for buses). Amulets and Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) are available starting from 8:30 AM (Goshuin from 9:00 AM).