Hida Ichinomiya Minashi Shrine

Hida Ichinomiya Minashi Shrine, located in Ichinomiya-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, is an ancient shrine that has long drawn deep veneration as the first shrine of Hida Province. Worshipping the sacred peak Mount Kurai rising behind it as its sacred body, it enshrines the deity Minashi-no-Okami. As a god governing the source of life and water, it has served as the guardian shrine of all Hida.

Highlights

- Solemn Halls: Dignified halls befitting the first shrine of Hida sit in the spacious grounds, wrapped in a crisp, taut air. - Sacred Trees and Great Cedars: Aged great cedars tower in the grounds, revered as sacred trees overflowing with life force. - Connection with Mount Kurai: The sacred body, Mount Kurai, is also known as a source of the yew wood used to make the "shaku" scepter employed in imperial succession, and is revered as a holy mountain.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring, the cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in the grounds are beautiful, making for refreshing worship. Summer is cool and wrapped in deep green. In autumn, colorful foliage adorns the grounds, and in winter the snow-clad halls show a dreamlike beauty. The annual Ikibina Festival (April), in which women in gorgeous costumes parade, is known as a spring highlight.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 5323 Ichinomiya-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture - Access: About an 8-minute walk from Hida-Ichinomiya Station on the JR Takayama Main Line. By car, about 20 minutes from central Takayama. - Hours: Grounds open freely (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

Close to the city of Hida-Takayama with good access. The sacred Mount Kurai also has a climbing path, so if time allows, directly feeling the energy of the holy mountain is recommended. Visiting around the Ikibina Festival in April lets you experience the traditional culture unique to Hida.