Takiharanomiya Shrine

Takihara-no-Miya (Takihara Shrine), together with the adjacent Takihara-Narabi-no-Miya, is a Betsugu (subsidiary shrine) of Kotai Jingu (Ise Jingu Naiku / Inner Shrine) that enshrines the sacred spirit (mitama) of Amaterasu Omikami. It has long been worshipped as a "To-no-miya" (distant shrine). The name Takihara is said to come from the many waterfalls, large and small, once found in the area. After walking along the approach surrounded by cedar trees that are said to be several centuries old, worshippers typically visit the two Betsugu shrines, "Takihara-no-Miya" and "Takihara-Narabi-no-Miya," followed by the two affiliated shrines, "Wakamiya Jinja" and "Nagayuke Jinja," in that order. Within the grounds there is also a building called "Mifunagura," a storehouse for the "Mifunashiro" where the sacred object is placed. This structure is unique to Takihara-no-Miya and is not found at the main shrine or the other 13 Betsugu shrines. Located in Taiki Town about 30 km from the main shrine, access takes effort, including about a 20-minute walk from the nearest station, JR Kisei Main Line "Takihara Station," but after visiting Naiku and Geku, it’s a rewarding place to stop by for a deeper Ise pilgrimage experience.