Visit Japan Web Kashihara-jingu
Visit Japan Web invites you to explore Kashihara-jingu. Approximately 2,700 years ago, Emperor Jimmu resided in Miyazaki Prefecture. He embarked on a mission to establish a peaceful and prosperous nation and locate a suitable site for a capital. He faced numerous challenges on his journey, but overcame them with the assistance of deities and his people. Jimmu eventually chose present-day Nara as the location to construct the capital and became the first Emperor of Japan. Kashihara-jingu was established in 1890 in response to the local community’s strong desire to honor Emperor Jimmu, leading Emperor Meiji to grant them buildings from the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Fifty years later, the shrine commemorated the 2,600th anniversary of Emperor Jimmu’s ascension to the throne. In honor of the occasion, a project funded by donations from across the country was undertaken. The project aimed to expand the shrine and its grounds.
Kashihara-jingu experiences significant foot traffic on National Foundation Day, February 11, and New Year’s Day. During these times, visitors can observe crowds strolling along the avenue of ginkgo trees, which leads from Kashiharajingu-mae Station to the grand torii gate at the shrine’s entrance. Fukuda Pond, located in the southern part of the grounds, features a well-maintained promenade. It is a popular destination for leisurely walks. In the spring, cherry trees surrounding the pond blossom, while in winter, ducks and other waterfowl can be seen resting. Adjacent to the pond within the compound is Nagayama Inari Shrine, a small shrine with a history predating Kashihara-jingu.
