Hibayamakume Shrine

Overview

Hibayamakume Shrine stands on Mount Hiba in Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture, and is popularly known as Kumano Shrine. It consists of two parts: the Kami-no-miya (inner shrine) near the summit and the Shimo-no-miya (village shrine) at the mountain's foot. Near the summit lies a burial mound said to be the tomb of the goddess Izanami, and the site has long been revered for blessings of childbirth and safe delivery.

Highlights

• ●A two-part shrine with the inner shrine near the summit and the village shrine at the foot
• ●A burial mound near the summit said to be the tomb of Izanami
• ●Deep devotion for blessings of childbirth and safe delivery
• ●The pedigree of a Shikinaisha noted in the Izumo Fudoki and Engishiki

History

Beside the summit hall of the inner shrine stands a burial mound said to be the tomb of Izanami, the mother goddess of the Japanese creation myths. The shrine is identified with the Kume-sha recorded in the Izumo Fudoki (Ou District) and the Kume Shrine listed in the Engishiki, marking it as a Shikinaisha of ancient standing. Today both the upper and lower shrines are registered under the name Kumano Shrine.

Map

35.3153, 133.2429 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Begin at the Shimo-no-miya village shrine at the foot of the mountain
2. 2Climb the Mount Hiba trail toward the Kami-no-miya inner shrine
3. 3Pay respects at the burial mound said to be Izanami's tomb
4. 4Pray for childbirth and safe delivery, then descend enjoying Yasugi's nature

Did you know?

💡 Mount Hiba is traditionally held to be where Izanami was laid to rest, and a burial mound believed to be her tomb remains near the summit. Because the shrine venerates this mother goddess, it has long been cherished for blessings of conception and safe childbirth.

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