Ushiodake Shrine

潮嶽神社

Est. 90Nichinan, Kyushu

JTA Approved

Overview

Ushiodake Shrine is the only Shinto sanctuary in Japan that enshrines Umisachi-hiko, a tragic character who appears in a myth of the divine ancestry of Jimmu, the legendary first emperor.

Ushiodake Shrine in southern Miyazaki is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to Umisachi-hiko, a figure from the myth behind Emperor Jimmu's divine ancestry. According to the legend, Umisachi-hiko drifted to sea after a dispute with his brother and washed ashore at this very site. The shrine also carries a living custom: devotees avoid borrowing sewing needles from each other, inspired by the fraternal quarrel in the myth. Each February 11, sacred kagura dances retell the story as part of a harvest prayer festival featuring offerings of boar and fish heads.

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: 潮嶽神社
Nearest station: Nichinan Station (25 min bus)
Payment: Cash only
Reservations: not required

Accessibility

Wheelchair parkingWheelchair restroom

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