Summary
Ichinomiya (一宮) means “first shrine.” It is the highest-ranked shrine of each old province in Japan, respected for its history, authority, and spiritual power.
Key Facts
- Meaning: The most important shrine of each province (kuni).
- System: Began under the Ritsuryo system (7th–10th century).
- Governor’s duty: Provincial governors (kokushi) worshiped here first upon arrival.
- Records: Many appear in the Engishiki Jinmyōchō (927 AD).
- Modern aspect: Some provinces have more than one Ichinomiya due to historical changes.
- Pilgrimage: Pilgrims sometimes travel around Japan to visit Ichinomiya shrines and collect goshuin (御朱印, shrine stamps).
- Visitors: Known as strong spiritual power spots, attracting worshippers from across Japan.
History in Brief
From the Asuka period to early Meiji, Japan was divided into 68 provinces. Each had a local government office (kokufu) and one shrine recognized as the highest — the Ichinomiya.
The governor sent from the capital would first pay respects at this shrine, making it both a spiritual and political center. Each Ichinomiya enshrines important kami (deities), often major figures from Japanese mythology or protective gods of the region.
Most Ichinomiya are ancient and listed in the Engishiki (927 AD). Later, as central power weakened, some provinces came to have two or more Ichinomiya, supported by local clans or samurai families.
Ichinomiya Today
Ichinomiya shrines remain highly respected across Japan. They represent not only local identity but also a deep spiritual heritage that continues to attract worshippers today.
- Many cities and towns still carry the name “Ichinomiya.”
- Worshippers visit not only from the local area but also from nationwide.
- They are often called spiritual power spots, believed to bring good fortune (kaiun 開運), success, and protection.
- Many visitors also collect goshuin (shrine stamps) as a record of their visit.
How to Visit
- You can find Ichinomiya shrines across Japan. Even visiting one shrine during your trip can be a special memory.
- After prayer, many visitors receive a goshuin (shrine stamp) or take home an omamori (protective charm).
- Weekends and festival days are more crowded.
Ichinomiya Near Major Airports
From Narita Airport (NRT)
- Katori Jingu (香取神宮) — Train about 1h40 + bus 15 min or taxi 10 min
- Kashima Jingu (鹿島神宮) — Train about 1h30–40 + walk 10 min
From Haneda Airport (HND)
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (鶴岡八幡宮) — Train about 1h + walk 10 min
- Hikawa Jinja (氷川神社) — Train about 1h20 + walk 20 min or bus
From Kansai International Airport (KIX)
- Sumiyoshi Taisha (住吉大社) — Train about 50–60 min + walk 3 min
- Ohtori Jinja (大鳥大社) — Train about 40–50 min + walk 10 min
These shrines are easy to visit from airports. They are good choices if you arrive early, have a few hours before departure, or want a simple first step into Japanese tradition.
※ Detailed access will be added in each shrine’s page later.
Etiquette
Visiting an Ichinomiya is a calm and spiritual experience. Please follow the basic manners of Shinto shrines.
- Stay quiet and respectful.
- No eating or drinking inside the grounds.
- Photography may be restricted near sacred areas. Please follow on-site signs.
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