Overview
Hinomisake Shrine, better known as Hinomisaki Shrine, stands on the Hinomisaki cape in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture. Affectionately called "Misaki-san," it has long been revered as the "ancestral deity" shrine of the great Izumo Taisha. Built in the ishi-no-ma-zukuri (gongen-zukuri) style, its vivid vermilion tower gate and a complex of buildings, twelve of which are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, form one of Izumo's most striking examples of shrine architecture. A stop on the Izumo Shinbutsu Pilgrimage, it perches on a cape overlooking the Sea of Japan.
Highlights
- ●Twelve gongen-zukuri buildings designated Important Cultural Properties
- ●A vivid vermilion tower gate and paired Upper and Lower shrines
- ●Deep reverence as the "ancestral deity" shrine of Izumo Taisha
- ●A dramatic setting on the Hinomisaki cape over the Sea of Japan
History
Hinomisaki Shrine is an ancient shrine revered as the "ancestral deity" of Izumo Taisha and is listed as a shikinaisha in the Engishiki register. Its magnificent halls today are arranged in the gongen-zukuri style, and twelve buildings among the Upper and Lower Shrine complexes are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. During the Warring States period, the warlord Amago Tsunehisa is said to have backed the shrine, raising its standing as a focal point of faith in Izumo. It is also known as a site on the Izumo Shinbutsu pilgrimage.
Access
The shrine lies on the Hinomisaki cape in Izumo (around 35.43°N, 132.63°E), near the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula on the coast. It can be reached from the area around Izumo Taisha by local bus or car heading toward Hinomisaki. Many visitors combine it with Izumo Taisha, and the coastal drive itself is scenic. Check timetables and parking through official information.
Best season
Clear days, when the vermilion halls shine against a blue sky, are especially recommended. To enjoy the nearby cape and coastline as well, the mild seasons of spring and autumn are comfortable. Aiming for the beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan is a treat, but winter brings strong winds, so dress warmly.
Map
35.4296, 132.6294 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to Hinomisaki after visiting Izumo Taisha
- 2Pass through the vermilion tower gate to view the Important Cultural Property halls
- 3Explore the Upper and Lower shrines and admire the gongen-zukuri design
- 4Enjoy views of the Sea of Japan and the sunset from the cape
Did you know?
💡 Being called the "ancestral deity" shrine of Izumo Taisha shows the special place this shrine has held within Izumo faith. Legend tells of sea snakes guiding the gods to Izumo, and sea snakes have been regarded as messengers of Izumo Taisha. Its setting on a cape facing the Sea of Japan carries that mythic worldview into the present.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!