Katsurahama Jinja Shrine

桂浜神社

4.1Est. 90Hiroshima, Chugoku

JTA Approved

Overview

The history of Katsurahama Jinja Shrine can be traced back to the eighth century.

Katsurahama Jinja on Kurahashi Island has been recorded since 736, when a traveler on a diplomatic mission to Korea composed a poem about its scenic beauty, preserved in the Man'yoshu, Japan's oldest poetry anthology. Originally dedicated to sea goddesses worshipped by fishermen, the shrine was rededicated to the warrior deity Hachiman in 1480 as maritime traffic shifted from fishing to military use. The main sanctuary, built in that same period, is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property and features cylindrical rather than squared pillars, atypical in shrine architecture. Its waterfront torii originally faced the sea to welcome visitors arriving by ship.

Local tips

Purify your hands at the temizuya before approaching the main hall. Left hand first, then right, then pour water into your left hand to rinse your mouth.

Practical info

Japanese name: 桂浜神社
Nearest station: Kure Station (30 min bus)
Payment: Cash only
Reservations: not required

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