Guida
Ube Jinja is a shrine that has played a vital role in the history of the ancient Inaba Province, located in Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture. The shrine has a long-standing history where the Ifukube family has served as priests for generations. The main hall (Honden) was rebuilt in 1898 (Meiji 31) and features the 'San-ken Sha-ryu-zukuri' architectural style, characterized by its majestic appearance and a traditional cypress bark roof. Within the grounds, you can witness the deep layers of Japanese history through the Sorikiishi—relics from the Kofun period—and the traditional Kirin Shishimai (Kirin Lion Dance), which is a designated intangible folk cultural property of Tottori Prefecture.
The history of this shrine is incredibly ancient, dating back to its founding in 648 AD. Throughout the centuries, the shrine buildings have been rebuilt several times. Detailed records of the priestly lineage date back to the Heian period, showing how the shrine has grown alongside the local community. Notably, the shrine's cultural depth is highlighted by the fact that Nobuyo Ifukube, the grandfather of the famous composer Akira Ifukube, served as a priest here during the Meiji era. Furthermore, the presence of the 'Sorikiishi'—remnants of a site from the early 5th century—provides crucial evidence of the historical transitions of this land.
The charm of Ube Jinja lies in its architectural beauty and ancient relics. First, the main hall, which preserves the Meiji-era style, features elegant structures like 'chigi' and 'katsuogi' that command respect from all who visit. Another must-see is the 'Sorikiishi' located below the Kineyama (Kineoka) mountain behind the main hall. This site is considered a sacred place (Iwakura) where the end of a deity's journey was once marked, and it is believed to have once housed a pit-style stone chamber. Additionally, during the annual festival on April 21st, the 'Kirin Shishimai' is performed. This dance, which shares characteristics with Gagaku and Noh, is a vital symbol of the region's traditional culture.
While the shrine offers a serene atmosphere year-round, visiting during the annual festival in April is highly recommended to experience the vibrant energy of the Kirin Shishimai and the traditional processions. During daylight hours, it is the best time to observe the intricate details of the main hall, the surrounding nature, and the unique topography of the Sorikiishi stones. As evening approaches, the shrine takes on a quiet, meditative atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful moment of reflection. You can enjoy the changing seasonal scenery alongside the historical landscape.
Visitors can observe the traditional structure of a Japanese shrine and the forms of faith deeply rooted in the local community. It is a place for visual learning regarding historical architecture, Kofun-period relics, and the culture of the lion dance. To create a comprehensive historical tour, we recommend visiting nearby sites such as the ruins of the Inaba Provincial Office (Inaba Kokucho-ato), which allows you to trace the history of the Inaba region from ancient times to the present.
The area around Ube Jinja is rich in historical sites. Notable spots include the ruins of the Inaba Provincial Office, the 'Manyo no Yakata' (which preserves Manyoshu culture), and 'Amadaki Falls,' one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls. The nearby burial sites of the Ikeda clan, former lords of the Tottori Domain, also offer a deeper insight into the region's history. Combining these visits will make your historical exploration truly rewarding.
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as the shrine grounds include stone steps and some slopes. Please ensure you have cash on hand for purchasing amulets (omamori) or using nearby facilities. As this is a sacred site, please follow all signs regarding photography, especially during rituals or in restricted areas. To protect the surrounding natural environment, please carry your trash with you and observe general shrine etiquette to maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere.