Explore the Sacred Beauty of Kotai Jingu: Japan's Most Revered Shinto Shrine
Discover the spiritual heart of Japan at Kotai Jingu, the sacred Inner Sanctuary revered for its beauty and Shinto traditions.
Kotai Jingu, or the Inner Sanctuary of Ise Jingu, is one of Japan's most significant and revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Nestled in the sacred city of Ise, this shrine attracts millions of visitors each year, making it a highlight for travelers seeking to experience Japan's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The shrine is set amidst a serene forest, providing a peaceful atmosphere that enhances the spiritual experience. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths that lead to the main shrine, surrounded by ancient trees that have stood for centuries. The architecture of the shrine is strikingly beautiful, featuring traditional wooden structures that are meticulously maintained and rebuilt every 20 years, preserving the ancient techniques of Shinto craftsmanship. As you explore Kotai Jingu, take a moment to participate in traditional rituals such as purification at the water basin, offering prayers, or purchasing omamori (amulets) for good fortune. The shrine is often bustling with visitors, especially during festivals, so plan your visit early in the day to enjoy a more tranquil experience. The nearby area offers various cultural experiences, including local crafts and traditional cuisine, adding to the richness of your visit. Make sure to allocate time to enjoy the tranquil gardens and perhaps engage in a moment of reflection, as Kotai Jingu is not just a tourist attraction but a place of deep spiritual significance for many Japanese people.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and witness the serene beauty of the shrine.
- Participate in the purification ritual at the water basin before entering the shrine to fully engage in the spiritual experience.
- Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding forest paths, which offer a peaceful retreat and an immersive connection with nature.
- Try local specialties at nearby restaurants to enhance your cultural experience after visiting the shrine.
- Check for any seasonal festivals or events that may be happening during your visit for a unique cultural experience.
A brief summary to Kotai Jingu (Ise Jingu Naiku, Inner Sanctuary)
- 1 Ujitachicho, Ise, Ujitachicho, Mie, 516-0023, JP
- +81596-24-1111
- Visit website
- Monday 5 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-7 pm
- Thursday 5 am-7 pm
- Friday 5 am-7 pm
- Saturday 5 am-7 pm
- Sunday 5 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Public Transportation
From Ise Station, take the Kintetsu Line to Iseshi Station. This journey takes approximately 10 minutes and costs around 200 yen. Once you arrive at Iseshi Station, exit the station and look for the bus terminal located nearby. Board the Ise City Community Bus (Blue Line) that is headed for Ise Jingu Naiku (Inner Sanctuary). The bus ride takes about 10 minutes and costs around 200 yen. The bus will drop you off at the entrance of Kotai Jingu.
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Driving
If you are driving, from Ise City Center, head south on Route 42. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Route 23 and turn left. After a short distance, follow the signs for Ise Jingu Naiku. There are parking facilities available near the shrine, but be aware that parking may incur a fee ranging from 500 to 1000 yen depending on the duration of your stay. The journey will take approximately 15 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to Kotai Jingu can be a pleasant experience. From Ise Station, it takes about 30-40 minutes on foot. Head south on Uji Yamada Street (Route 23), then turn left onto Ujitachicho Street which leads directly to the shrine. Follow the signs along the way, and enjoy the scenery as you approach this sacred site.
Attractions Nearby to Kotai Jingu (Ise Jingu Naiku, Inner Sanctuary)
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No-step Stone
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Divine Meal Cooking House
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Aramatsuri-no-Miya Shrine
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Kaguraden Hall (Naiku)
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Ise Jingu Kazahinomi no Miya Bashi Bridge (Isuzugawa Bashi)
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Kazahinomi-no-Miya Shrine
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Jingushicho
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Ujibashi Bridge
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Okage Yokocho
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Okage-za Mythical Hall
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Isuzu Park
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Sengukan Museum
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Toyouke Daijingu (Ise Jingu Geku, Outer Sanctuary)
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Geku-sando (Front Approach leading to Geku Outer Shrine)
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Tsukiyominomiya
Landmarks nearby to Kotai Jingu (Ise Jingu Naiku, Inner Sanctuary)
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Formerly known as “Hayashizaki-bunko” atheneum
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Tsukiyomi-no-miya Shrine
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Hoshidekan
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Shima Peninsula
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Asama-dake Kongosho-ji Temple
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Ise Meotoiwa Shopping Plaza
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Okitama Jinseki
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Ounoura Bridge
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Hotel Shima Spain Mura
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THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS Kashikojima
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Basaratei
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Shima Kanko Hotel The Classic
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Kashiko Island
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Ise Shrine
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Amanemu