Getting to Kirishima Jingu Shrine from Miyazaki by train and then transferring to a very infrequent bus is truly a challenge for travelers without a car. However, after the long, bumpy journey, the moment I stepped off the bus and saw the enormous torii gate standing at the entrance to the mountain forest, all the travel fatigue instantly faded away.
Walking along the approach surrounded by lush greenery and red maple leaves, Kirishima Jingu Shrine suddenly came into view, tucked away in the mountains. Its solemn, sacred atmosphere inspired a deep sense of reverence. Under the clear blue sky, the National Treasure main hall looked especially striking. From the observation deck in front, you can even admire the magnificent mountain scenery of Kagoshima in the distance.
If you have the chance to visit, don’t miss the hidden highlight beside the main hall: a towering sacred tree that has stood for nearly 1,000 years. Look carefully toward the top of the tree, and you’ll find a shape resembling a figure dressed in traditional Shinto priest attire, hands pressed together in prayer. This remarkable coincidence created by nature is worth stopping to observe quietly and closely.
