Kanpei Taisha

Kirishima Shrine

霧島神宮

/ Kirishima Jingū

Kirishima Shrine
Image: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
Admission
Free
Goshuin
¥300
Access
See details
Hours
24 hours (office 8:00–17:30)

Overview

Kirishima Jingu stands at the foot of sacred Mt. Kirishima, the mythological site where Ninigi-no-Mikoto descended from heaven to found the Japanese imperial line (tenson korin). The entire mountain range is considered the shrine's grounds. Destroyed repeatedly by volcanic eruptions, the shrine was relocated to its current verdant forest setting in the 18th century. In 2022, its main hall was newly designated a National Treasure — the first such designation for a shrine building in Kagoshima.

History

1715📄Documented

Current shrine buildings constructed by the Shimazu clan at the present location.

2022📄Documented

Main hall, offering hall, and worship hall designated as National Treasures.

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

Grandson of Amaterasu, who descended from heaven to rule the terrestrial realm; bearer of the three Imperial Regalia

secondary Deity

Goddess of cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, volcanoes, and delicate earthly life

secondary Deity

Younger brother, deity of mountain bounty; grandfather of Emperor Jimmu

Blessings

Did You Know?

💡

Sakamoto Ryoma and his wife Oryo visited the Takachiho peaks above the shrine during what is considered Japan's first honeymoon (1866).

Source: tradition

💡

The shrine was designated a National Treasure as recently as 2022 — one of Japan's newest NT shrine designations.

Source: documented

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

31.8589, 130.8719

Physical Address

2608-5 Kirishima Taguchi, Kirishima, Kagoshima 899-4201

〒899-4201 鹿児島県霧島市霧島田口2608-5

Historical Province

Osumi Province

Access

Kirishima-Jingu Station (JR Nippo Main Line)

Hours

24 hours (office 8:00–17:30)

Bus

Bus from Kirishima-Jingu Station, ~15 min

Best Times to Visit

Spring (sakura with mountain backdrop)Autumn (foliage)

Foreign Language Support

English signage

Accessibility

Main area accessible

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Why This Shrine

The mythological site where the imperial ancestor descended from heaven, with newly designated National Treasure buildings amid volcanic mountain scenery.

Related Shrines

Related Myths

Learn More About Shinto Shrines

Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Kirishima Shrine?

Kirishima Jingu stands at the foot of sacred Mt. Kirishima, the mythological site where Ninigi-no-Mikoto descended from heaven to found the Japanese imperial line (tenson korin). The entire mountain range is considered the shrine's grounds. Destroyed repeatedly by volcanic eruptions, the shrine was relocated to its current verdant forest setting in the 18th century. In 2022, its main hall was newly designated a National Treasure — the first such designation for a shrine building in Kagoshima.

Where is Kirishima Shrine located?

Kirishima Shrine is located in Kirishima, Kagoshima. The full address is: 2608-5 Kirishima Taguchi, Kirishima, Kagoshima 899-4201.

What deities are enshrined at Kirishima Shrine?

The enshrined deities are: Ninigi no Mikoto, Konohanasakuya-hime, Hoori no Mikoto (Yamasachihiko).

What blessings can you pray for at Kirishima Shrine?

Kirishima Shrine is known for: Relationship Bonds, Family Harmony, Nation Building.

How do I get to Kirishima Shrine?

The nearest station is Kirishima-Jingu Station (JR Nippo Main Line). Bus from Kirishima-Jingu Station, ~15 min