Kirishima-jingu Shrine is one of Japan's most important Shinto sites, founded in the 6th century and dedicated to Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the grandson of sun goddess Amaterasu. According to Japanese mythology, this deity descended from the heavens to nearby Mount Takachiho-no-Mine, making the shrine a sacred site connected to the origins of the imperial family. The shrine recently achieved national treasure status in February 2022, becoming the first cultural property in Kagoshima Prefecture to receive this prestigious architectural designation.
The shrine is accessible via JR Kirishima-jingu Station on the Nippo Main Line, though the station is located more than 5 kilometers from the actual shrine. Regular buses run from the station to the shrine, taking approximately 15 minutes and costing 290 yen, with services operating every 1-4 hours. Alternatively, visitors can drive and park in the facility that accommodates up to 500 vehicles. The shrine is about one hour by train from Kagoshima city.
Kirishima-jingu Shrine is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and admission is completely free. This makes it accessible for early morning visits to experience the peaceful atmosphere or evening visits to see the illuminated buildings.
Visitors can explore the stunning vermillion shrine buildings set against ancient cedar forests, creating a striking visual contrast. The complex faces Mount Takachiho, maintaining its spiritual connection to the legendary descent site. You can visit Takachiho-gawara, which is considered the actual location where the divine descent occurred according to Shinto belief. The shrine offers traditional worship experiences and the chance to appreciate nationally recognized architecture in a sacred mountain setting.
The current shrine buildings were constructed in 1715 by the feudal lord of Kagoshima domain after the original structure was repeatedly destroyed by volcanic eruptions from Mount Kirishima. The shrine has been moved to its present location over 500 years ago due to repeated destruction and rebuilding caused by the active volcano. This relocation preserved the sacred site while protecting it from ongoing volcanic activity in the region.
