Detailed History and Overview of Ise Jingu 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Ise Jingu
   
2. History of Ise Jingu
   
3. Highlights of Ise Jingu
   

Introduction

Ise Jingu is one of Japan's oldest and most revered shrines, often referred to as the spiritual home of the Japanese people. For thousands of years, it has been a central place of worship and faith in Japan. The shrine complex is primarily composed of two main shrines: Naiku (Inner Shrine), which enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess from Japanese mythology, and Geku (Outer Shrine), dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the deity of agriculture, food, clothing, and industry.

Visitors to this sacred site can experience Japan’s ancient cultural and religious heritage, connect with centuries of history, and appreciate the grandeur of nature that surrounds the shrine.

1. Overview of Ise Jingu 

Ise Jingu is one of Japan's oldest and most significant Shinto shrines, officially known simply as "Jingu." Located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, it is considered the pinnacle of over 80,000 shrines across Japan. The shrine complex primarily consists of two main shrines: Naiku (Inner Shrine), which enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess, and Geku (Outer Shrine), dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the deity of food, clothing, shelter, and industry. In total, Ise Jingu comprises 125 affiliated shrines.

The origins of Ise Jingu date back to the reign of the 11th Emperor Suinin, when Amaterasu Omikami was believed to have been enshrined in the Ise region. According to Japan's oldest historical text, the Nihon Shoki, Emperor Suinin’s fourth daughter, Yamatohime-no-Mikoto, led Amaterasu Omikami to Ise as her sacred envoy, or "mitokoromo."

Ise Jingu is also well known for the traditional pilgrimage known as "O-Ise Mairi", where worshippers follow the custom of visiting Geku before Naiku. Surrounded by rich natural beauty, visitors walking the approach to the shrines can feel the sacred atmosphere that has persisted since ancient times. The grounds are enveloped by the expansive Jingu Forest, which is roughly the size of Setagaya Ward in Tokyo and has been meticulously preserved under strict management. This forest is off-limits to the public, allowing the sacred air to be maintained. Alongside the approach flows the pristine Isuzu River, preserving the natural scenery that has existed since ancient times.

The architectural style of Ise Jingu is known as "Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri," a unique and traditional Japanese design known for its simplicity and beauty. The shrine buildings are constructed from Hinoki cypress, featuring a robust, linear design that reflects Japan's finest traditional wooden architecture. This style is regarded as the pinnacle of Japan’s traditional architecture and has garnered high praise both domestically and internationally.

One of the most remarkable traditions at Ise Jingu is the Shikinen Sengu, a grand ceremony held every 20 years. During this ritual, all the shrine buildings, including those at Naiku and Geku, are rebuilt to provide the deities with new dwellings. This tradition has been upheld for over 1,300 years, ensuring that Ise Jingu remains in a state of constant renewal through this sacred practice.

For the Japanese people, Ise Jingu holds deep cultural, historical, and spiritual significance. Revered as the "spiritual homeland" of Japan, it commands profound respect and admiration from countless worshippers.

2. History of Ise Jingu 

The history of Ise Jingu dates back to ancient times and is centered around two main shrines: Naiku (Inner Shrine), which enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, and Geku (Outer Shrine), dedicated to Toyouke Omikami. Below are the key historical events of Ise Jingu, outlined by period.

　1. Around 4 BCE: The Founding of Naiku (Kotaijingu) 

The origins of Ise Jingu trace back to ancient times. According to tradition, Yamatohime-no-Mikoto, daughter of Emperor Suinin, spent over 20 years searching for a suitable place to enshrine the sacred object of Amaterasu Omikami.

Finally, she arrived in Ise and declared, "This land is where the eternal waves come ashore." It was here that she decided to enshrine Amaterasu Omikami. This marked the founding of Naiku (Kotaijingu), which is a significant event in Japanese mythology.

　2. 690 CE: The First Shikinen Sengu Ceremony  

In 690 CE, during the reign of Empress Jito, the first Shikinen Sengu was conducted at Ise Jingu. Shikinen Sengu is a grand ceremony held every 20 years where all the shrine buildings are rebuilt, and the sacred garments and treasures are renewed.

This tradition not only passes down the architectural techniques and rituals to future generations but also symbolizes the constant renewal of the shrine. It is believed to pray for the prosperity of the nation and the well-being of its people. The Shikinen Sengu has been carried out continuously without interruption to this day.

　3. 13th Century: Establishment of the Oshi System and Popularization of Pilgrimage 

In the 13th century, during the Kamakura period, Ise Jingu established the Oshi system to increase the number of pilgrims from across Japan. The Oshi were individuals, separate from the shrine priests, who traveled around the country to spread the faith and guide pilgrims to Ise Jingu.

They provided accommodations, meals, and prayer services to pilgrims, which led to the spread of "O-Ise Mairi" (Ise pilgrimage) among the common people. This helped Ise Jingu solidify its status as the spiritual center of national faith.

　4. 1600s: The Edo Period and the "Okage Mairi" Phenomenon 

In the Edo period, mass pilgrimages known as "Okage Mairi" became a social phenomenon. In years like 1705 (Hoei 2) and 1771 (Meiwa 8), records show that millions of people from all over Japan visited Ise Jingu. This mass religious fervor, also called "Ee ja nai ka", saw people temporarily leave their daily lives to seek faith and enjoyment in Ise.

This phenomenon is a critical part of understanding the social and spiritual life of the Edo period.

　5. 1868: The Meiji Restoration and the Establishment of State Shinto 

With the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Japan embarked on rapid modernization and Westernization. During this period, the government established State Shinto as the official national religion, positioning Ise Jingu at the heart of this system.

Ise Jingu, which enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestral deity of the imperial family, played a central role as the symbol of the nation. With government funding and protection, the shrine’s facilities were greatly expanded, and its rituals were strictly maintained.

　6. Post-1945: Reconstruction and Continuation into the Modern Era 

After World War II, Japan adopted a new constitution that separated religion from state and guaranteed freedom of religion, leading to the abolition of State Shinto. However, Ise Jingu continued its traditions and rituals as a religious corporation. Despite the postwar turmoil, the 59th Shikinen Sengu was carried out in 1953, and the tradition of the 20-yearly Sengu continues unbroken.

In 2013, the 62nd Shikinen Sengu was held with great ceremony, attracting many visitors to the newly built shrine buildings. Today, Ise Jingu remains a symbol of Japanese culture and spirituality, drawing countless worshippers and visitors from Japan and abroad. 

3. Highlights of Ise Jingu 

Ise Jingu is Japan’s most renowned Shinto shrine, centered around its two main shrines: Naiku (Inner Shrine) and Geku (Outer Shrine). It is a sacred site visited by many worshippers and has several notable attractions. Below is a detailed introduction to its key highlights:

【 ⟨　Naiku (Kotaijingu)　⟩ 】
Naiku (Kotaijingu) enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess and the most revered deity in Japanese mythology, regarded as the ancestral deity of the Imperial family. As the heart of Ise Jingu, Naiku attracts numerous worshippers from across Japan.

　■ Shogu (Main Shrine) 

Shogu is the central and most sacred location of Ise Jingu, where Amaterasu Omikami is enshrined. It is the most important place for worship, and visitors offer prayers at the haiden (worship hall) located in front of the main shrine. The traditional worship practice here involves two bows, two claps, and one bow, performed solemnly.

While the general public is not allowed inside the Main Shrine itself, the sacred atmosphere is palpable even from outside. The structure is built in the ancient architectural style known as Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri, and every 20 years, the shrine undergoes a complete reconstruction in a ceremony called Shikinen Sengu.

　■ Uji Bridge 

Uji Bridge, located at the entrance of Naiku, symbolizes the transition from the mundane world to the sacred domain of the gods. Crossing this bridge represents entering the divine realm. Uji Bridge is a wooden structure measuring 101.8 meters in length and 8.42 meters in width, with torii gates at each end marking the boundary of the sacred area.

The bridge offers stunning views, particularly at sunrise and sunset. At dawn, many visitors come to witness the majestic scene of the sun rising over the bridge. Like the shrine buildings, Uji Bridge is rebuilt every 20 years as part of the Shikinen Sengu.

　■  Isuzugawa Mitarashi 

Once you cross Uji Bridge, you will come upon the Isuzugawa River, a clear stream running through the shrine grounds. Along its banks is the Isuzugawa Mitarashi, a purification spot where worshippers cleanse themselves before entering the sacred areas of Naiku. In ancient Japanese tradition, worshippers would perform misogi (ritual purification) before offering prayers, and the Isuzugawa River has served this purpose for centuries.

Here, visitors can purify their hands directly with the river’s pure water, preparing themselves spiritually before proceeding to the Main Shrine.

　■ Takimatsuri-no-Kami Shrine 

Takimatsuri-no-Kami Shrine is a subordinate shrine of Naiku, dedicated to the deity who protects the Isuzugawa River. Located along the riverbank on the path to the Main Shrine, this shrine plays an important role as the guardian of the waters. Since ancient times, rituals have been performed here to prevent floods and pray for abundant harvests.

Takimatsuri-no-Kami Shrine is a serene place nestled in nature, where visitors can reflect in the peaceful surroundings, feeling cleansed by the sacred atmosphere. The pure waters of the Isuzugawa symbolize the holiness of Ise Jingu, making this shrine an essential part of the pilgrimage to Naiku.

　■ Mishine-no-Mikura 

Mishine-no-Mikura is a sacred storage facility within Naiku where grain offerings to Amaterasu Omikami are kept. The storehouse primarily holds rice and other grains, symbolizing the deep connection between Japanese agriculture and the gods. Under strict management, Mishine-no-Mikura safeguards these offerings, emphasizing the importance of the annual harvest and the gratitude expressed to the gods.

Visitors passing by Mishine-no-Mikura can reflect on the abundance of crops dedicated to the deities, symbolizing the strong ties between Shinto beliefs and Japan’s agrarian culture.

　■ Naiku Kaguraden (Kagura Hall) 

The Naiku Kaguraden is an important building within the Naiku precincts where kagura (sacred dance and music) is performed and prayers are offered. Here, individuals and groups can request a kagura performance in thanks or to make specific prayers to Amaterasu Omikami.

The building, like other structures in Naiku, follows the Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri architectural style. The kagura rituals are solemnly conducted in this sacred space, where worshippers can offer prayers for various wishes, such as weddings, safe childbirth, and business prosperity. The Kaguraden provides a space where people can directly offer their prayers to the Sun Goddess, making it a central part of the Naiku experience.

【 ⟨　Geku (Toyouke Daijingu)　⟩  】
Geku (Toyouke Daijingu) enshrines Toyouke Omikami, the deity responsible for providing food to Amaterasu Omikami, and is revered as the god of food, clothing, and shelter, as well as the daily necessities of life. Geku stands as a counterpart to Naiku, forming an essential part of the sacred Ise Jingu complex.

　■ Shogu (Main Shrine) 

The Shogu is the central shrine of Geku, where Toyouke Omikami is enshrined. Like Naiku’s Shogu, visitors offer their prayers at the worship hall in front of the Shogu, following the traditional ritual of two bows, two claps, and one bow. Behind the Shogu stretches a vast sacred forest, whose tranquility brings deep peace to those who visit.

The Shogu is reconstructed every 20 years during the Shikinen Sengu ceremony, in which Toyouke Omikami is moved to a newly built shrine. This ritual is key to maintaining the shrine's traditions and keeping the sacred space perpetually renewed. The lush greenery and serene atmosphere surrounding the Shogu embrace visitors with a sense of spiritual calm.

　■ Taganomiya 

Taganomiya is a separate shrine located at the highest point within Geku and enshrines the Aramitama (active and powerful spirit) of Toyouke Omikami. The Aramitama represents the god’s vigorous and assertive aspect, and Taganomiya serves as a place to express gratitude and offer prayers to this spirit.

To reach Taganomiya, visitors must ascend a stone staircase, with the climb itself being considered a symbolic part of the spiritual ritual. At the top stands the solemn shrine, offering a peaceful space to connect with the divine. The process of ascending the stairs is seen as a form of mental purification, and praying at Taganomiya is believed to cleanse the soul.

　■ Kazenomiya 

Kazenomiya is a shrine dedicated to the gods of wind, Shinatsuhiko-no-Mikoto and Shinatobe-no-Mikoto. These two deities are believed to control the forces of wind, maintaining the balance of nature and playing an essential role in agriculture and fishing. Historically, Kazenomiya has been a place where people prayed for bountiful harvests and protection from wind-related disasters.

The shrine sits quietly within the Geku grounds, blending seamlessly with nature. On windy days, visitors are said to feel the presence of the gods through the gentle breezes.

　■ Kodenchi (Old Shrine Grounds) 

Kodenchi is one of the most sacred areas within Geku and marks the site where the shrine of Toyouke Omikami once stood during previous Shikinen Sengu cycles. Every 20 years, the shrine is rebuilt, and the old shrine is dismantled, but the site remains revered as Kodenchi.

It is believed that the gods still dwell in these old shrine grounds, and the area is imbued with sacred energy. Visitors to Geku often stop by Kodenchi to reflect on the history of the shrine and offer their gratitude, connecting with the traditions of Ise Jingu. Kodenchi serves as a link between the past and the future, symbolizing the cyclical nature of renewal in the divine realm.

　■ Mitsuishi 

Mitsuishi is a sacred spot located near the Shogu in Geku, featuring three large stones placed on the ground. These stones are believed to hold special power, and visitors often pray at this site, touching the stones to feel the divine energy and to seek blessings.

Surrounded by tranquility, Mitsuishi is a place where visitors can quiet their minds. It is recommended that those visiting Geku not only pay their respects at the Shogu but also stop by Mitsuishi to experience the sacred atmosphere that is in harmony with nature.

　■ Geku Kaguraden (Kagura Hall) 

The Geku Kaguraden is an important structure within Geku where kagura (sacred dance and music) is performed to honor the gods. Here, worshippers can offer personal prayers or gratitude through mikë (food offerings) or osake (sake offerings) as part of a gokito (prayer ritual). During the ceremony, shrine priests perform kagura, delivering the worshippers' prayers to the gods.

Built in the traditional Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri architectural style, the Kaguraden embodies the solemn and majestic atmosphere of Ise Jingu. The kagura performed here is a significant ritual symbolizing communication with the gods, and the Kaguraden serves as a testament to the continued tradition and faith of Ise Jingu.

【 ⟨　Okage Yokocho　⟩ 】
Okage Yokocho is a popular sightseeing spot often visited after worshipping at the Naiku of Ise Jingu. It recreates the townscape from the Edo period to the early Showa era. Spanning approximately 13,200 square meters, the area is lined with about 60 shops, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Ise’s local cuisine and traditional crafts. The name "Okage Yokocho" comes from the Okage Mairi pilgrimage tradition that gained popularity during the Edo period.

　■ Strolling and Snacking on the Main Street 

In Okage Yokocho, visitors can enjoy a variety of street food offered by different vendors. Popular local delicacies such as tekone sushi, Matsusaka beef skewers, and grilled oysters are available, making it easy to indulge in small, tasty bites during a stroll. The lively atmosphere and abundance of local flavors make snacking along the street one of Okage Yokocho’s main attractions.

　■ Ise Udon 

Ise Udon is a traditional local specialty and one of the most popular dishes in Okage Yokocho. It features thick, soft noodles coated in a rich, soy sauce-based broth. The noodles are softer and chewier than typical udon, offering a distinct texture.

The dish originated as a quick meal for pilgrims visiting Ise Jingu, allowing them to eat quickly and conveniently. With its short preparation time and easy-to-eat quality, it became a favorite. Many tourists seek out Ise Udon after visiting the shrine to experience the local flavor firsthand.

　■ Akafuku Mochi 

Akafuku Mochi is one of Ise’s most famous traditional sweets, served at Akafuku Honten, which was founded in 1707. It consists of a simple structure: sweet, smooth koshi-an (sweet red bean paste) spread over soft rice cakes. Its refined sweetness and smooth texture have made it a long-standing favorite. Akafuku Mochi was originally created to soothe the weary pilgrims of Ise Jingu, and it remains a popular treat in Okage Yokocho.

The best seasons for Akafuku Mochi are summer and winter. In summer, the special Akafuku Kori, a shaved ice dessert with Akafuku Mochi inside, is a popular limited-time offering. In winter, the seasonal Tsuitachi Mochi (First Day Mochi), available only on the first day of each month, is highly sought after by visitors.

 Conclusion 

Ise Jingu, as a symbol of Japanese history, culture, and faith, leaves a profound impression on all who visit. The vast sacred grounds of Naiku and Geku, surrounded by nature, offer an ideal place to find peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Visitors can not only connect with Japan’s ancient beliefs and culture through worship but also enjoy the region’s rich culinary traditions and craftsmanship. Ise Jingu serves as more than just a tourist destination—it is truly Japan’s "spiritual homeland." A visit to Ise Jingu is an opportunity to experience its mystery and richness firsthand, and it is an experience not to be missed.