21‏/10‏/2013

Kirishima Shrine

The symbol of Kirishima

By Senén Germade

Community writer

General view of Kirishima shrine

Torii gate marking the approach and entrance to Kirishima shrine

Bow before entering through the torii gate. The inner part of the shrine is a holy place, a place for enshrined Gods. You should show the appropriate respect.

Purification fountain

Found near the entrance, the water of these fountains is used for purification. You are supposed to clean your hands and mouth before approaching the main hall.

You should take one of the ladles provided, fill it with fresh water and rinse both hands. Then transfer some water into your cupped hand, rinse your mouth and spit the water beside the fountain.

Approaching the main hall

One of the ancient protected trees in the area. This one is said to be over eight-hundred years old.

Endless trees in the surroundings of the shrine

Leaving Kirishima shrine

Not too far from Kirishima City we can find Kirishima Shinto shrine (霧島神宮). It was originally built on top of Mt. Takachiho in the middle of the 6th century to deify Niniginomikoto, an ancient Japanese god. The present Kirishima shrine was rebuilt in 1975 by Lord Shimadzu Yoshitaka, feudal lord of Satsuma domain and the 21st patriarch of the Shimadzu family, as the original shrine was destroyed by the fire during a volcanic eruption. I highly recommend a visit to this beautiful traditional shrine. You can have a peaceful walk through the surrounding forest, home of ancient trees, and enjoy spectacular views of active volcano Sakurajima and the bay. So, what are you waiting for?

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Senén Germade

By Senén Germade

Community writer

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