Miyazaki Shrine (Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture)
[Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)]
Miyazaki Jingu Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Emperor Jimmu (Kami Yamato Iwarehiko no Mikoto), the first emperor of ancient Japan, as its main deity. Since ancient times, this area has been considered the birthplace of the Imperial family and a sacred place for worshiping the Imperial ancestors. The current shrine building was mainly constructed after the Meiji period, and is characterized by its prestigious status and a majestic approach to the shrine surrounded by lush forest. The large torii gate, spacious grounds, and ancient trees create a tranquil atmosphere, and the shrine's changing appearance throughout the seasons make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike as a place where you can experience both history and nature. You can receive amulets and red seals (temple stamps), and the shrine is visited by many worshippers during New Year's and milestone festivals.
[Highlights]
- Omotesando and the Great Torii Gate: The calm atmosphere of the approach and the great torii gate at the entrance to the temple grounds are great photo spots.
– Shrine building: A formal worship hall and main hall. During festivals, you may be able to see special costumes and religious ceremonies (please check in advance whether viewing is available).
– Old trees and forest space: The evergreen trees and ginkgo trees in the temple grounds create beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. The yellow leaves in autumn and the fresh greenery in spring are particularly spectacular.
- Subsidiary shrines and auxiliary shrines: You can pray for individual blessings at the small shrines scattered around the temple grounds.
- Goshuin/Seal Shop: Original charms and goshuin seals are given out. There may be long lines during New Year's visits and festivals.
– Walking trails around the shrine: Enjoy strolling and taking photos in a quiet atmosphere.
[Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)]
– Nearest public transportation: Access by bus or taxi from JR Miyazaki Station (Miyazaki Station).
- Bus: Take a Miyazaki Kotsu bus and get off at the nearest bus stop, such as "Miyazaki Jingu" or "Miyazaki Jingu Station" (approximately 10-20 minutes depending on the route). Bus times and routes may change, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance.
- Taxi: Approximately 10-20 minutes from JR Miyazaki Station (depending on traffic).
- By car: Access via public roads from the Miyazaki Expressway, Miyazaki IC, or the city center. There is a parking lot for visitors near the temple grounds (whether it is free or paid varies depending on the season, so check the local information).
- By air: From Miyazaki Airport, it takes about 30 to 40 minutes by airport limousine bus, rental car, or taxi.
(*Travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the means of transportation used. Please check the official information of each transportation facility for the latest timetables and routes.)
[Estimated stay (estimated time required)]
– Visit only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- If you want to take your time looking around, taking photos, and getting a goshuin stamp: 1 to 1.5 hours
- If you are attending a festival or special event, the time required will increase (maybe half a day).
[Nearby spots]
– Aoshima (Aoshima Shrine): A small island surrounded by the sea, famous for its beaches and subtropical plant scenery. About 30 minutes by car from central Miyazaki City.
- Phoenix Seagaia Resort: Resort facilities, golf courses, hot springs, etc. Approximately 20 minutes by car.
- Easy access to tourist attractions in the city, such as Miyazaki City Phoenix Zoo (Phoenix Zoo) and Miyazaki Prefectural Art Museum.
- Nichinan Coast (Udo Shrine, etc.): If you take a drive, you can enjoy the coastline scenery and visit ancient shrines (takes about an hour).
– Restaurants and souvenir shops in the city: You can enjoy local dishes unique to Miyazaki (chicken nanban, hiyajiru, etc.).
[Points to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)]
- Crowds: It gets very crowded on New Year's Day, national holidays, consecutive holidays (Golden Week, etc.), and religious ceremonies and festivals. There may be long lines at the temple seal and gift shops, so please allow plenty of time to visit.
- Manners: Shrines are religious facilities. When visiting, please observe basic manners such as purifying yourself at the chozu (water basin), observing proper etiquette for worship (a slight bow followed by two bows, two claps, and one bow), refraining from shouting or eating or drinking within the shrine grounds, and avoiding entering ritual equipment or buildings outside of designated areas.
- Photography: Photography is permitted in most areas within the temple grounds, but photography may be prohibited inside the worship hall or during religious ceremonies. Please follow the signs and instructions.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, the sun and humidity are strong, so take measures to prevent heatstroke (wear a hat and stay hydrated), and in winter, take measures to protect yourself from the cold. On rainy days, the approach to the shrine can be slippery in places, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Spring and autumn are tourist seasons, so the shrine tends to be crowded.
- Visiting by car: During festivals and holidays, surrounding roads and parking lots will be congested, so please consider using public transportation or visiting at a different time.
If necessary, we will also create a visitor guide (timetable, fees, contact details) that includes up-to-date practical information such as the time when the temple seal is issued, opening and closing times of the shrine office, and details of parking.
