Ise Jingu: Journey to the Spiritual Heart of Japan

Why is Ise Jingu Special?

It is the supreme shrine among the more than 80,000 shrines in Japan. It enshrines **Amaterasu Omikami**, the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family and the guardian deity of all Japanese people. Comparing her to the sun, she is the kami who nurtures all living things.

However, Ise Jingu's uniqueness isn't just about its status. It lies in the philosophy of **"Tokowaka" (Eternal Youth)**, which has kept this place fresh and vibrant for over 1,300 years.

"Shikinen Sengu": The 20-Year Rebirth

Every 20 years, the shrine buildings at Ise are rebuilt on an adjacent site, using the exact same blueprints and traditional methods. This ritual is called **Shikinen Sengu**.

• Passing on Skills: Rebuilding every 20 years ensures that ancient carpentry skills are transmitted to the next generation.
• Eternal Youth: Based on the belief that "the dwelling of the kami should always be pure and beautiful."
• Circular Resources: The wood from the dismantled shrines is reused for torii gates and shrines across the country.

Even though the buildings are new, the history of this place as a sanctuary has continued unbroken for over 1,300 years. This mysterious sense of being "ancient yet new" is the true charm of Ise.

"Geku First": The Proper Order of Worship

Ise Jingu is a collective name for 125 shrines, centered around two main sanctuaries: **"Naiku" (Inner Shrine)** and **"Geku" (Outer Shrine)**.

1. Geku (Outer Shrine)

Deity: Toyouke-no-Omikami
The provider of sacred food to Amaterasu, and the guardian of clothing, food, shelter, and industry. First, we offer gratitude here for the necessities of our daily lives.

Why is it the "Spiritual Home"?

Why is Ise Jingu considered special among the thousands of shrines in Japan? It is because it enshrines **Amaterasu Omikami**, the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family and the guardian deity of all Japanese people (So-Ujigami).

In the Edo period, a mass pilgrimage boom called "Okage Mairi" occurred, with millions of people traveling to Ise. For people at that time, going to Ise was the greatest entertainment of their lives and a testament to their faith. That DNA of "longing" has been passed down to us today.

Journey into Myth: The Cave Legend

When hearing of Amaterasu Omikami, many might recall the famous myth of "Ama no Iwato" (The Heavenly Rock Cave). Saddened by the violent behavior of her brother, Susanoo, Amaterasu hid in a cave, plunging the world into darkness.

The myriad gods (Yaoyorozu no Kami) used their wisdom, and with the dance and laughter of Ame-no-Uzume, they lured Amaterasu out, restoring light to the world. this "Resurrection of the Sun" is at the root of the Ise Jingu faith. By visiting, we fill our own hearts with bright, sun-like energy once again.

Naiku and Geku: Dual Sanctuaries

Ise Jingu is not a single shrine. Properly called **"Jingu,"** it is a collective term for 125 shrines. The center of these includes "Naiku" and "Geku."

The Proper Route (Geku First)

According to ancient custom, it is formal to visit in the order of **"Geku then Naiku"**. This sequence signifies first expressing gratitude to the provider of daily necessities (Geku), purifying oneself, and then visiting the supreme deity (Naiku).

If time permits, please try to follow this order. Your heart will be better prepared, and the emotion at Naiku will be deeper.

Shikinen Sengu: A 1300-Year System of Eternity

The most unique feature of Ise Jingu is the **"Shikinen Sengu."**

Every 20 years, the shrine buildings are rebuilt, and the deity's clothing and treasures are all renewed, moving the deity to a new palace. The first Sengu was held in 690 AD. Except for interruptions during the Warring States period, this has continued for 1,300 years.

Why "Tokowaka" (Eternal Youth)?

Why destroy and rebuild? Stone would last for centuries. However, Shinto values "Tokowaka" (always being young and fresh). It is believed that a state filled with fresh vitality, rather than an aging building, is suitable for the dwelling of a kami.

It also serves as a transfer of technology. With a 20-year cycle, a craftsman can participate in the Sengu two or three times in a lifetime. It is an amazingly sustainable system designed to pass down the skills and spirit of "Miya-daiku" (shrine carpenters) from veterans to the next generation.

Must-Visit "Bekku" and Power Spots

Beyond the main sanctuary (Shogu), if you have time, visit the "Bekku" (auxiliary shrines). Here are spots known for strong spiritual energy.

• Aramatsuri-no-miya: Inside Naiku. Enshrines the "Aramitama" (wild soul) of Amaterasu. While the main sanctuary is for gratitude, this represents active energy, making it best for personal prayers.
• Kazahinomi-no-miya: Inside Naiku. Dedicated to the gods of wind who blew the "Divine Wind" (Kamikaze) during the Mongol invasions. Good for when you need a "tailwind" in life.
• Taka-no-miya: Inside Geku. Located on a small hill, said to have the strongest energy in Geku. Visit here to declare new resolutions.

The Joy After Worship (Naorai)

After worship, enjoy "Naorai" (communion through food) at Oharaimachi or Okage Yokocho. Eating after visiting the kami is an essential part of the ritual.

Ise's Top 3 Soul Foods

1. Akafuku Mochi: Rice cake topped with smooth bean paste shaped like the waves of the Isuzu River. The sweetness heals the fatigue of travel.
2. Ise Udon: Thick, soft noodles in a dark, rich sauce. It is said the lack of firmness ("koshi") was designed to be gentle on the digestion of travelers.
3. Tekone Zushi: Fisherman's dish from Shima. Red sashimi (like bonito) is marinated in soy sauce and placed on vinegared rice.

Visitor Information

Practical data for planning your visit.

• Hours: Varies by season, but generally opens at 5:00 AM.
  • Jan-Apr, Sep: 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • May-Aug: 5:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Longest days)
  • Oct-Dec: 5:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Access:
  • Geku: 5 min walk from JR/Kintetsu "Iseshi Station".
  • Naiku: 10 min bus from Kintetsu "Isuzugawa Station", or 15 min bus from Geku.
• Attire: No strict dress code, but comfortable shoes are a must for walking on gravel. Avoid overly revealing clothes out of respect.

Gratitude for "Being Here"

At the main sanctuary of Ise Jingu, rather than personal wishes ("I want to be rich"), it is customary to first offer "daily gratitude." Thank the kami: "Thanks to you, I could come here safely today," and pray for world peace.

When we offer prayers for something bigger than ourselves, we strangely feel refreshed and fulfilled. That may be the essence of prayer that Ise Jingu teaches us.