ShimaneTravel

Morning Prayers Among the Vermilion-Painted Shrine Buildings Said to Protect Japan's Night

About this spot

An ancient shrine located at Hinomisaki on the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula. While Ise Grand Shrine (伊勢神宮) is said to 'protect the day of Japan,' this shrine is said to 'protect the night of Japan.' The Lower Shrine, Hishizumi-no-miya (日沈宮), enshrines Amaterasu Ōmikami (天照大御神), while the Upper Shrine, Kami-no-miya (神の宮), enshrines Susanoo no Mikoto (素盞嗚尊). The gongen-style shrine buildings, said to have been built under orders from Tokugawa Iemitsu (徳川三代将軍家光), the third Tokugawa shogun, are painted in striking vermilion and designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Against the green pines, blue sky, and the scent of the sea, the vermilion hue is absolutely painterly. Pass through the gate tower and pray for safe travels throughout the day in this serene sacred space before heading toward the cape's tip.

Tips

There is a free parking lot in front of the shrine. Morning sees fewer visitors and the shrine buildings are beautifully lit by the morning light. Beyond the gate tower is sacred ground, so please visit quietly. If you wish to receive a shrine stamp, check the reception hours of the shrine office beforehand for peace of mind.

Best time to visit

Approximately 40 minutes. The clear morning light illuminates the vermilion shrine buildings beautifully, and you can pray quietly with few visitors around.