Kirishima Jingu

Kirishima Jingu is a shrine in Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture. It is said to be one of Kirishima’s leading power spots and is associated with seven mysteries. The shrine has burned down multiple times due to volcanic eruptions and was moved to its current location about 500 years ago. You can see unique sights such as the ‘Shoreiboku’ sacred tree and ‘Sazare-ishi’ stones. It is also famous as a matchmaking shrine, and because Sakamoto Ryoma’s honeymoon was in Kirishima, many young women visit hoping to meet a good partner. The seven mysteries are: Makazu-no-tane (seeds that are not sown), Moji-iwa (letter rock), Kame-ishi (turtle rock), Kaza-ana (wind cave), Mitarai-gawa (purification river), Ryodo-gawa, and Yonaka-no-kagura (midnight kagura). Of these, three are said to be located within Kirishima Shrine—try to find them. The sacred cedar tree is about 800 years old, and the shrine is surrounded by dense greenery, creating a very holy atmosphere. Many people also visit during the autumn foliage season. A popular souvenir is Hokomochi. Access: about 15 minutes by bus from Kirishima-Jingu Station. Parking for about 350 cars is available, making it easy to visit by car.