Kirishima Shrine (Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Kirishima Shrine is an ancient shrine in Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, and a historic site linked to the myths that appear in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The main deity enshrined is Ninigi-no-Mikoto, and the shrine has been revered since ancient times as the center of faith related to the descent of the heavenly grandson. Located at the foot of the Kirishima mountain range, the shrine grounds offer a tranquil backdrop of mountains, and the harmonious scenery of the moss-covered approach, magnificent rows of cedar trees, and vermilion shrine buildings is an appealing sight.

The shrine and approach have been restored and rebuilt many times, but the old traditions and worship of nature remain strong, and many worshippers visit the shrine for New Year's visits, weddings, local festivals, etc. It is also a popular tourist destination, where you can enjoy the changing atmosphere of the four seasons.

Highlights

• Vermilion shrine building: The stately main hall and worship hall are great spots for photos. The contrast with the surrounding greenery is beautiful.
• Approach and large torii gate: You can enjoy the stone steps of the approach and the large torii gate, as well as the atmosphere before worship.
• Ancient trees and cedar trees: The temple grounds are filled with old cedar trees and a rich forest, and you can feel the clean air just by walking through them.
• Documents and treasures related to myths and legends: You can come into contact with historical and ritual items in the shrine office and treasure hall (when open to the public).
• Seasonal scenery: The scenery changes depending on the season, with fresh greenery in spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and scenery shrouded in mist in winter.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station/public transportation: If you are using the JR line, depending on the area, it is common to access the area by bus or taxi from Kirishima-Jingu Station or the nearest major station. During the tourist season, direct buses may operate from the airport or station, so be sure to check the timetable in advance.
• From the airport: Approximately 30-50 minutes from Kagoshima Airport by local bus or rental car (depending on traffic conditions). Airport limousine buses may be direct or may stop along the way.
• Access by car: Approximately 30 to 50 minutes via national and prefectural roads from the Mizobe Kagoshima Airport IC on the Kyushu Expressway. Parking is available within the temple grounds, but it can get crowded during peak tourist season.
• Tourist bus: There may be seasonal tourist buses available that connect Kirishima Onsenkyo and surrounding tourist spots.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including visiting the shrine, purchasing a goshuin stamp or amulet)
• Leisurely sightseeing: 1-2 hours (strolling around the temple grounds, visiting the treasure museum, taking photos, etc.)
• Including the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (when combining with nearby spots such as the Kirishima Mountains, hot springs, and waterfalls)

Nearby spots

• Kirishima Onsen: You can enjoy touring the hot springs by staying overnight or taking a day trip.
• Takachiho-no-mine: A mountain where you can enjoy hiking and views of the volcanic terrain (beware of restrictions on hiking trails and traffic due to volcanic activity).
• Maruonotaki: A unique landscape where a waterfall and hot springs mix together.
• Ebino Plateau: A plateau perfect for nature walks and trekking (the scenery changes dramatically depending on the season).
• Kirishima Open-Air Museum and other tourist facilities are also scattered around the area.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: The shrine is extremely crowded during New Year's visits, long holidays, and the autumn foliage season. Parking lots and surrounding roads can become congested, so please plan ahead and allow plenty of time.
• Manners: When praying, please observe basic shrine etiquette, such as avoiding the center of the torii gate, purifying yourself with the water basin, and observing proper etiquette in the worship hall. Please be quiet within the shrine grounds, and be sure to take any trash with you or dispose of it in the designated area.
• Photography: Photography is permitted in most areas of the temple grounds, but photography may be prohibited inside the worship hall and main hall, or during religious ceremonies. Please follow the posted notices and on-site guidance.
• Weather and clothing: The temple is at the foot of the Kirishima Mountains and is quite high, so the weather can change quickly. It's a good idea to bring rain gear and cold weather gear. The approach to the shrine has some slippery stone steps and pavement, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
• Volcanic activity and restrictions: The area around the Kirishima Mountains may be subject to volcanic activity and access restrictions. When planning mountain climbing or sightseeing in the area, please check the latest weather information and information from local governments and tourist guides in advance.

To ensure a smooth visit, please check the official website or tourist information for the latest access information, worship information, and event information before your visit. Please take your time to enjoy the tranquil shrine grounds, where you can feel the nature and mythology of Kirishima.