Nichizen-jingu and Kunikakari-jingu Shrines

Overview

Located in Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, Nichizen-jingu and Kunikakari-jingu Shrines have been a center of faith as Kii Province's Ichi-no-miya for centuries. According to tradition, they were founded in 65 AD during the reign of Emperor Sujin. The grounds are home to two shrines: Nichizen-jingu and Kunikakari-jingu, each enshrining important deities. The principal deity of Nichizen-jingu is Hinokuma-no-Ookami, and its sacred mirror, Higata-no-Kagami, is considered equivalent to the Yata-no-Kagami, a sacred treasure of Ise Grand Shrine's inner shrine. Similarly, the principal deity of Kunikakari-jingu is Kunikakari-no-Ookami, and its sacred mirror, Hiboko-no-Kagami, is also considered equivalent to the Yata-no-Kagami. This deep connection to Amaterasu Omikami and the enshrinement of deities comparable to those of Ise Grand Shrine have earned the shrines reverence since ancient times. Legends surrounding Emperor Jimmu's Eastern Expedition are also inseparable from the shrine's history. He was supposedly guided to Kashihara in Yamato Province (present-day Kashihara City) by a Yatagarasu (three-legged crow). The Yatagarasu, considered an embodiment of the sun, is said to represent heaven, earth, and humanity. Because of its role in guiding Emperor Jimmu to success, the Yatagarasu has been revered as a guiding deity. The Yata-no-Kagami, a sacred treasure of Ise Grand Shrine, is considered the embodiment of Amaterasu Omikami. Therefore, the Higata-no-Kagami and Hiboko-no-Kagami enshrined at Nichizen-jingu and Kunikakari-jingu are considered equivalent, highlighting the exceptional nature of the deities they enshrine. Nichizen-jingu and Kunikakari-jingu are a place where history and mythology intersect deeply, offering a unique experience for visitors. The grounds boast numerous highlights, including shrine buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties and a statue of the Yatagarasu that guided Emperor Jimmu. If you visit Wakayama City, be sure to pay a visit.