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Kibitsu Jinja: A Shrine Steeped in Legend

Explore Kibitsu Jinja in Okayama: a historic shrine with unique architecture, a Momotaro connection, and tranquil seasonal beauty.

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Kibitsu Jinja, located in Okayama, is a Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back potentially 1700 years. Known as the ichinomiya (first shrine) of Bitchū Province, it's famous for its unique architecture, connections to the Momotaro legend, and the mysterious Narukama Shinji ritual.

A brief summary to Kibitsu Jinja (Sanbi Ichinomiya)

  • Monday 5 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-6 pm
  • Friday 5 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the second Sunday in May or October for the shrine's main festivals.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the 360-meter covered corridor, enjoying the seasonal flowers.
  • Participate in the Narukama Shinji ritual for a unique fortune-telling experience.
  • Look for peach-shaped amulets (*momomamori*) as a unique souvenir.
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Getting There

  • Train

    From JR Okayama Station, take the JR Momotaro Line (Kibi Line) to Kibitsu Station. The ride is approximately 20 minutes. From Kibitsu Station, it's a 10-minute walk to Kibitsu Jinja. The train fare is around ¥210, and is free with the Japan Rail Pass.

  • Car

    Kibitsu Jinja is approximately 15 minutes from both the Okayama Soja IC and Okayama IC. Free parking is available at the shrine. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak seasons and festival days.

  • Public Transport

    From Okayama Station, take the Okayama Electric Tramway to Shiroshita station. From there transfer to a bus, or walk. Tram fare is ¥120-¥140. A one-day pass for unlimited tram rides is available for ¥400.

Unlock the Best of Kibitsu Jinja (Sanbi Ichinomiya)

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Discover more about Kibitsu Jinja (Sanbi Ichinomiya)

Kibitsu Jinja, nestled at the foot of Mount Kibi-Nakayama in Okayama, is more than just a scenic spot; it's a journey into Japanese mythology and architectural uniqueness. Believed to have been established around 1700 years ago, with major reconstruction in 1425, the shrine is dedicated to Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, a deity said to be the inspiration for the beloved folk hero, Momotaro. The shrine's main hall and worship hall, rebuilt in 1425, are designated National Treasures, showcasing the distinctive *kibitsu-zukuri* architectural style, found nowhere else in Japan. A striking feature is the 360-meter covered corridor that connects various pavilions, offering a tranquil stroll through history. Along the walkway, seasonal flowers bloom, including hydrangeas in June and peonies in late April to early May. Kibitsu Jinja is also known for the Narukama Shinji ritual, a fortune-telling practice involving the sound of a heated cauldron, believed to be linked to the demon Ura, who was defeated by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. The shrine also has a dual worship of ancestral spirits alongside *Mizuko kuyō* or cults of miscarried babies. Visitors can explore various auxiliary shrines and cultural properties, immersing themselves in the serene atmosphere and rich legends of this historical site.

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