Ikuta-jinja Shrine

Ikuta Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine located in Chuo Ward, Kobe City, with a history of more than 1,800 years. Locals affectionately call it “Ikuta-san,” and it is often used for a baby’s first shrine visit (omiyamairi), Shichi-Go-San celebrations, and weddings. Access is about a 10-minute walk from JR Kobe Line Sannomiya Station or the various private railway Sannomiya stations, making it easy to visit while enjoying a stroll through the city. Long ago, the imperial court granted the shrine a group of households (kanbe) to protect it, and the surrounding area became shrine land—this is said to be the origin of the place name “Kobe.” The enshrined deity is Wakahirume-no-Mikoto, sometimes described as the childhood name—or a younger sister—of Amaterasu-Omikami. The vermilion-lacquered buildings are beautiful, and because the shrine has repeatedly suffered damage from floods, air raids, and major earthquakes and has been rebuilt each time, it is also revered as a symbol of revival. Behind the worship hall spreads a sacred grove known as Ikuta no Mori, famous as an ancient battleground of the Genpei War and beloved by citizens today. The shrine is also well known as a “power spot” for matchmaking, attracting many visitors seeking a good relationship.