Mikuriya-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Mikuriya-jinja is a small shrine in Akashi featuring traditional wooden structures, stone lanterns, and a main building with simple design and curved roof. The well-kept grounds are lined with trees, and spring brings cherry blossoms and red and white plum flowers nearby.
The shrine is believed to have been founded around the 4th century and connects to the legendary Queen Jingu. In the late 800s, a shrine dedicated to Hachiman, a warrior god, was added, and later the famous scholar Sugawara no Michizane visited, leading to the addition of a shrine for Tenjin, the god of learning.
The shrine connects to stories of Queen Jingu, a legendary figure who stopped at the nearby bay to gather supplies. Visitors today can see a stone monument telling her story, and the grounds draw people for traditional ceremonies and festivals that bring the community together.
The shrine is about a ten-minute walk west from Higashi-Futami station and is easy to explore on foot. Since no parking is available on the grounds, arriving by train or walking is most practical and creates a quiet, peaceful visit.
Many sailors and sea workers visit the shrine to pray for safety during their journeys, as it connects to the sea and ships. Visitors can see traditional boat models and images reflecting this maritime connection.
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