Kibitsu Shrine, Shinto shrine in Kibitsu, Okayama, Japan
Kibitsu sits in Okayama Prefecture and has served as an active shrine for the local community since the 15th century. The buildings stand on a forested hillside accessed by a covered corridor extending over 300 meters (980 feet).
The current main building arose in 1425 during the Muromachi era as a replacement for an earlier structure. The government recognized the shrine as a National Treasure in 1951, securing its long-term preservation.
The main hall combines the usually separate honden sanctuary and haiden worship space under one continuous roof, a rare construction form in Japan. This layout creates a shared space for worshippers and shrine staff during ceremonies.
The covered corridor offers shelter from rain and sun, though the slope requires comfortable shoes and some stamina. Early morning and weekdays usually see quieter conditions than weekends.
The shrine connects with the regional legend of the demon Ura, preserved in local storytelling and folk customs. A ritual called Narukama uses the steam sound of boiling rice to predict future events.
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