1-1. Basic Information and History of Ise Grand Shrine’s Naiku Shrine
Ise Grand Shrine’s Naiku Shrine, located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, is Japan’s most prestigious shrine, formally known as “Kotai Jingu” (Imperial Grand Shrine). It is a special place where Amaterasu Omikami, considered the ancestral deity of all Japanese people, is enshrined.
Its founding is said to date back approximately 2000 years, during the reign of Emperor Suinin (the 11th emperor), when Princess Yamato-hime no Mikoto, guided by a divine revelation, enshrined the deity in its current location.
Another significant feature of Ise Grand Shrine is the “Shikinen Sengu” (periodic rebuilding of the shrine). This is a Shinto ritual performed every 20 years, in which the shrine buildings are rebuilt, a unique Japanese cultural practice that maintains a constant state of purity.
The next Shikinen Sengu is scheduled for 2033 (Reiwa 15).
1-2. Differences from Geku Shrine and the Order of Worship (Geku Shrine → Naiku Shrine is the Basic Order)
Ise Grand Shrine consists of two main shrines: the “Naiku Shrine” and the “Geku Shrine (Geku)”.
・Naiku Shrine: Dedicates Amaterasu Omikami (the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family)
・Geku Shrine: Dedicates Toyouke Omikami (the deity of clothing, food, and shelter)
Due to the difference in their roles, the formal order of worship is “Geku Shrine → Naiku Shrine”. This signifies first expressing gratitude to the gods who support our lives, and then paying homage to the supreme deity.
Geku Shrine and Naiku Shrine are approximately 6 km apart, and travel between them by bus or car is common.
1-3. Why is it said to be a “Place to Visit at Least Once in a Lifetime”?
The reason why Ise Grand Shrine’s Naiku Shrine is said to be a “place to visit at least once in a lifetime” is because it is not merely a tourist destination, but is considered the spiritual homeland of the Japanese people.
During the Edo period, pilgrimages to Ise Shrine were extremely popular, attracting many people on foot from all over Japan. At the time, it was considered a once-in-a-lifetime event, a dream for many.
Furthermore, Naiku Shrine’s appeal lies in its sacred atmosphere. It’s said that the air changes the moment you cross the Uji Bridge, and the shrine grounds, surrounded by the clear waters of the Isuzu River and vast forests, quietly soothe the hearts of visitors.
In addition, in terms of blessings, many people desire to visit because they expect significant benefits related to all aspects of life, such as:
・Good fortune and prosperity
・Family safety
・usiness success
and more.