Cross the Uji Bridge, purify your hands in the Isuzu River, and approach the main sanctuary. Pay respects at the spiritual home of Japanese hearts
About this spot
Kotai Jingu, also known as the Inner Shrine, enshrines Amaterasu Omikami and is the spiritual home of the Japanese people, with approximately 2,000 years of history. Once you cross the Uji Bridge spanning the Isuzu River, you enter sacred ground. Listen to the babbling of the river as you purify your hands at the sacred basin, then walk the approach lined with centuries-old cedar trees. At the top of the stone steps stands the thatched-roof main sanctuary in quiet repose. Walking on the gravel listening to its crunch, bathed in dappled sunlight, becomes a special experience even for children. The shrine is renowned for continuing the Shikinen Sengu ceremony, which rebuilds the sanctuary every twenty years. The extensive grounds take approximately one hour to leisurely explore, including the auxiliary Arasahara Shrine. The convenient location leading directly to Oharai Town after worship is another appeal.
Tips
From the front of the Outer Shrine, approximately 10–15 minutes by bus; get off at 'Naiku-mae' stop. On weekends, holidays, and during holiday periods, expect heavy crowds from late morning, so morning visits are recommended. The approach observes right-side traffic; note that photography of the main sanctuary is permitted only from the bottom of the stone steps. The gravel approach makes a baby carrier more practical than a stroller.
Best time to visit
Plan for approximately 1.5 hours. Morning visits, before the heavier crowds arrive, are recommended
Access & map
〒516-0023 Mie Prefecture, Ise City, Uji Tatekan-cho 1
Model course featuring this spot
Ise: From the Outer Shrine to the Inner Shrine, Food Walk Through Okage Yokocho
Mie
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