Kirishima-Jingu, one of Southern Kyushu’s most powerful spiritual sites, is located in Kagoshima Prefecture. It is a historic shrine known as Japan’s oldest honeymoon spot—where Ryoma Sakamoto once visited with his wife—and is also famous as a spot for viewing autumn foliage.
In this article, we introduce the must-see attractions of Kirishima-Jingu, a shrine that is beautiful in every season.
What is Kirishima-Jingu?
Kirishima-Jingu, founded in the 6th century, is a shrine that enshrines Ninigi-no-Mikoto—the protagonist of the myth of the descent of the heavenly grandchild. Because it is located at the foot of a volcano, it has caught fire several times, but in the early 18th century the Shimazu family built and donated the current shrine buildings.
It is also famous as one of the top autumn foliage spots, with awe-inspiring autumn leaves that cascade along the torii gates and stone steps. Approximately 1.5 million people visit the shrine every year for blessings and sightseeing. At Kirishima-Jingu, both its goshuin (temple stamps) and its charming amulets are very popular.
1. Main Hall
After walking through a serene approach lined with verdant cedar trees, you are greeted by the dazzlingly luxurious main hall.
The large-scale main hall, built in the traditional hip-and-gable style with five bays on the front and four bays on the sides, is magnificently decorated in vermilion. Inside, the walls are lacquered and the floor is covered with uguisu (bush warbler) tatami. Enjoy viewing beautiful decorative features such as the nationally designated Important Cultural Property “24 Filial Piety Wall Paintings.”
As the name “Kirishima” suggests, mist sometimes covers this area; when the main hall is shrouded in mist, it creates an indescribably mystical atmosphere that often stops visitors in their tracks.
2. Kirishima-Jingu Observatory
After passing the imperial envoy hall and the third torii gate along the approach, you come to an observatory just before the shrine office. From this observation deck, your view opens up to reveal a panoramic vista of the Kirishima mountain range.
On a clear day, it is recommended as a breathtaking spot where you can see Sakurajima and Mount Kaimon. In autumn, you can enjoy the vibrant colors of the mountains.
Near the observatory, there is a unique panel commemorating the honeymoon visit of Ryoma Sakamoto and his wife Oriyo, making it an excellent spot for a commemorative photo.
3. The Sacred Cedar
At the far right of the front garden of the shrine stands a majestic sacred cedar that captivates all who see it.
This tree, known locally as Kirishima Measa (Kirishima Cedar), is an indigenous species estimated to be about 800 years old. It is said to be an ancestor of the cedars in Southern Kyushu. Not only is it tall, but its trunk measures about 7.2 m in circumference—truly a giant tree. The appearance of the sacred cedar wrapped in shimenawa (sacred rope) exudes an aura befitting its divine status.
When you circle around to the back of the tree and look up, the tree’s knobby silhouette resembles a person in priestly attire, as if a priest were praying with his hands folded. It is truly a natural mystery created by nature.
4. Mitarai River
Near the entrance to the old approach lies one of the “Seven Wonders of Kirishima” known as the Mitarai River. Although the river flows only for a certain period—completely drying up from around November to April—every May, clear water suddenly gushes out from a rock cave and forms a small stream.
As you proceed along the old approach, you will also encounter mysterious spots among the Seven Wonders of Kirishima, such as a wind hole where a gentle breeze blows and a natural stone resembling a turtle, aptly named “Kameishi.”
5. Ryodo River
Let us introduce another mystical river. Located about 50 m away from the Mitarai River is the Ryodo River. Every year around June, water begins to flow, but mysteriously dries up after about ten days. However, after a few days, the flow resumes again, which is truly mysterious.
Though it is a short, small clear stream, its water volume is surprisingly abundant! Because it flows twice every year at a set time, it is called the “Ryodo River.” While similar to the Mitarai River, the flow of the Ryodo River is subtly different, making it equally fascinating.
6. The Old Shrine Site of Kirishima-Jingu (Takachiho Riverbank)
At a sacred place where you can view Mount Takachiho as the divine embodiment, lies the Old Shrine Site of Kirishima-Jingu (Takachiho Riverbank). This is the site where Kirishima-Jingu once stood. Passing through a large torii gate, about 500 m from the Takachiho Riverbank parking lot, and after walking about 10 minutes along the approach, the old shrine site comes into view.
There are no current shrine buildings, only a stone altar remains, but standing in this mystically charged area, you feel a sense of refreshment and divine energy. The old shrine site is also famous as a spot for cherry blossoms and Miyama Kirishima (a type of local tree). Cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April, and Miyama Kirishima is best seen around late June.
Access to Kirishima-Jingu
♦By Car
There is a spacious free parking lot on the shrine grounds that can accommodate about 500 vehicles. It takes approximately 40 minutes by car from the Kyushu Expressway. “Mizobe Kagoshima Airport IC.” From Kagoshima City, it takes about 70 minutes.
♦By JR
From Kagoshima-Chuo Station, it takes about 50 minutes by JR train to the nearest Kirishima-Jingu Station. From there, take the bus bound for Kirishima Iwasaki Hotel for about 15 minutes and get off at “Kirishima-Jingu.”
Name: Kirishima-Jingu
Address: 2608-5 Kirishimadaguchi, Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan
Business Hours: Open for worship daily (no holidays)
Prayer reception: 8:00–17:00, Award Counter: 8:00–17:30
Official/Related Site URL: https://kirishimajingu.or.jp/
◎ Also Enjoy: Famous Cherry Blossom and Autumn Foliage Spots at Kirishima-Jingu, Plus Relax in Hot Springs!
Kirishima-Jingu is renowned as a place for viewing beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and its visitors come year-round seeking healing, power, and blessings. With its stunning shrine buildings, the “Seven Wonders of Kirishima” (including various mysterious rivers and spots), and an observatory offering breathtaking natural views on clear days, there is much to see.
After visiting, you can also enjoy the famous hot springs in the area to soothe your travel fatigue.