Kashihara Jingu (Kashihara Shrine)

In Nihon Shoki, Japan’s first imperial-commissioned history book, Kasihara is noted as the land of Japan’s founding. The coronation of the first emperor, Jinmu, took place in the palace in Kashihara, according to Nihon Shoki. Based on that record, Kashihara Jingu was built to enshrine Emperor Jinmu and his wife Empress Himetataraisuzuhime.

Many halls dot the huge sacred ground nearly 530,000m² on verdant Mt. Unebi. The main hall that enshrines the gods was Naishidokoro Hall relocated from the Old Imperial Palace in Kyoto. This is a national important cultural property along with Bunkaden, a warlord’s mansion, relocated and reconstructed. Kaguraden Hall used to be Shinkaden at Kyoto’s Imperial Palace until the relocation here.

In 2000, to commemorate the 110th year anniversary since enshrining, the Treasure Hall was built. Emperor Meiji’s sword, his wife, Empress Shoken’s mirror, Yokoyama Taikan’s art, and other valuable treasures that have been donated since the beginning are on exhibit.

The sublime approach lined with oak trees, 49,500m²-wide Fukada Pond with a boardwalk, etc. are the best for a peaceful stroll.

Emperor Jinmu had overcome many difficulties for six years from Hyuga Province to Yamato Province (present Nara Prefecture) and built a shrine, thus, visitors come for a blessing of good luck. From the coronation, he reigned for 76 years and lived until 127 years old, thus, a blessing of health and long life. While he was trekking through mountains for Yamato Province, the Sun Goddess is said to have sent Yatagarasu crow to guide him. Lucky charms and fortune paper have the design of this crow, the ayu fish that foretold the victory of Emperor Jinmu, or the golden kite that aided his victory in a war.