Kirishima-jingu Shrine
霧島神宮
An ancient shrine dedicated to Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the heavenly grandson. Its vermilion shrine buildings are tucked among cedar forests. It is the foremost shrine in southern Kyushu associated with the myth of the descent of the heavenly grandson.
Kirishima-jingu Shrine enshrines Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the heavenly grandson who descended from Mount Takachiho in Japanese mythology. The original shrine site was on the slope of Mount Takachiho, but it was repeatedly destroyed by volcanic eruptions. The current shrine buildings were rebuilt in 1715 by Shimazu Yoshitaka, lord of the Satsuma domain. The vermilion main hall, offering hall, and worship hall are designated National Treasures. Beside the approach stands a sacred cedar about 800 years old, which is said to show the figure of a priest in its trunk. Admission to the grounds is free, and worship is open all day. The amulet office is open from about 8:00 to 17:00. Getting there: take a bus from JR Kirishima-jingu Station for about 10 minutes. Kagoshima Airport is about 40 minutes away by car.
Opening hours
Open all day; amulet counter 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Takachiho Farm
- Kirishima Shinwa-no-Sato Park
- Takachiho-gawara & Mount Takachiho-no-mine
- Kirishima Onsen Village & Maruo Falls
- Lake Onami
- Mount Karakuni
- Ebino Plateau
- Inukai Falls