Hirakiki Shrine

Believed to have been founded in the age of the gods, Hirakiki Shrine is recorded in the Nihon Sandai Jitsuroku (a historical chronicle compiled in the Heian period) and listed in the Engishiki Jinmyōchō as “Satsuma Province Ei District Hirakiki Shrine,” one of the official shrines of Satsuma Province. The main deity enshrined here is Ōhirume no Mikoto (the Sun Goddess), along with the five male and three female deities.

The shrine venerates Mount Kaimon-an iconic peak on the Satsuma Peninsula once used as a landmark for sea navigation-as its sacred object. For this reason, it has long been worshipped as a guardian of the sea, granting blessings for safe voyages and traffic safety. In addition to its main hall, designated a Prefectural Important Cultural Property, the vivid vermilion shrine buildings, set against lush greenery, are a striking sight.

The sacred camphor tree, estimated to be 800 years old, exudes a deeply spiritual presence. The treasure hall is also worth visiting, housing the Matsu-Ume Makie Kushibako (a comb box decorated with pine and plum in maki-e lacquerwork), which is designated a National Important Cultural Property.

About 700 meters north of the shrine grounds lies Tama no I, said to be Japan’s oldest well. According to legend, this is where Yamasachihiko met Toyotama-hime, making it a renowned spot for matchmaking and romantic connections.