A–Z directory

御杖神社

Mitsue Shrine

Japanese Name御杖神社
English NameMitsue Shrine
ReligionShinto
Coordinates34.4943188, 136.1946235

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

A Shinto shrine located in Mitsue village, Nara Prefecture, known for its connection to the legendary journey of Emperor Jinmu during his eastern expedition. The shrine is situated in a mountainous area that played a significant role in early Japanese imperial mythology.

Cultural Significance

The shrine's name 'Mitsue' (御杖) literally means 'sacred staff' or 'divine cane,' referencing the divine guidance received by Emperor Jinmu during his legendary eastern expedition. This connects the shrine to foundational myths of the Japanese imperial lineage and the establishment of early Japanese civilization.

Enshrined Deities

Emperor Jinmu

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

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Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

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Quick Facts

  • Era: Ancient period
  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

The shrine is located in a rural mountainous setting, so visitors should plan for a scenic but potentially challenging journey to reach it.

History

Mitsue Shrine is traditionally associated with Emperor Jinmu's eastward campaign (Jinmu tosei), particularly the events described in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki where the future emperor received divine guidance through dreams and omens in this region. The area of Mitsue was considered sacred as a place where imperial forces regrouped and received spiritual direction during their conquest of the Yamato region.

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