Kirishima Jingu Shrine has been relocated multiple times due to volcanic eruptions. Furumiya-Ato and Motomiya are some of the locations where Kirishima Jingu Shrine once stood.
The previous Kirishima Jingu Shrine was located at Furumiya-Ato in Takachihogawara. During the Heian Period (794–1185), the Tendai sect monk Shōkū Shōnin established six shrines surrounding the Mt. Takachiho-no-Mine. Kirishima Jingu Shrine was one of them, and at that time, it flourished as a training ground for many monks.
After climbing the stone steps and passing through the torii gate, you’ll find a stone shrine. The sacred tree enshrined there is still young and has a slender trunk. Nearby, you’ll notice that the other trees are similarly thin, likely because this area was previously devastated by a volcanic eruption.
Looking up beyond the shrine, you’ll see a towering crater. Just beyond this crater lies Motomiya, which is located near where the first Kirishima Jingu Shrine was established nearly 1,500 years ago.
To reach Motomiya, you must climb from the old shrine ruins. Many climbers continue past Motomiya in their quest to reach the summit of Mt. Takachiho-no-Mine.
At the top, you can see Amanosakahoko, a spear that’s embedded in the ground. According to legend, the heavenly gods spotted an island in the misty sea and dropped a spear onto it as a sign. It’s said that this spear became lodged at the summit of Mt. Takachiho-no-Mine.
You can find a replica of the spear displayed at the Takachihogawara Visitor Center at the trailhead but we encourage you to visit the summit to see the real spear.
Photo 1: Kirishima Shrine at Furumiya-Ato Takachihogawara
Photo 2: Amanosakahoko standing on the summit of Takachiho-no-Mine
