Mishima Shrine (Gujocho, Shikokuchuo City, Ehime Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, and Access Information
Mishima Shrine, located in Mishima Miyagawa, Shikokuchuo City, Ehime Prefecture, is a historical shrine founded in the early Nara period. This shrine, with its impressive large torii gate visible from National Route 11, has been a center of local faith and cherished by people for over 1300 years. This article provides a detailed explanation of Mishima Shrine’s history, enshrined deities, highlights within the grounds, annual festivals, and access methods.
History and Origins of Mishima Shrine
Founded in the Nara Period
The founding of Mishima Shrine dates back to the 4th year of the Yōrō era (720 AD). In the early Nara period, Ochi no Tamazumi was appointed as the chief administrator of Uma District. The Ochi clan was a prominent local family in Iyo Province, and their base was Omishima Island, where the Oyamazumi Shrine is located.
Ochi Tamazumi was a devout follower of Oyamazumi-no-kami and would stay at the Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima Island every month for worship. However, as he grew older, frequent visits became difficult. Therefore, he invited a divided spirit from Omishima Island and enshrined it at the present location of Yatsunaura Mitsunazaki Kanmurioka, which is considered the beginning of Mishima Shrine.
Transition from the Medieval to the Early Modern Period
The old main hall was constructed in Entoku 2 (1490). This period marked the beginning of the Sengoku period (Warring States period), suggesting that the shrine was highly revered by local samurai and lords.
During the Edo period, it served as the guardian shrine of Uma County, attracting the faith of local residents. As the Mishima region developed, the shrine was also improved, forming the foundation of the grounds we see today. ### Mishima Shrine in the Modern Era
Even after the Meiji era’s separation of Shinto and Buddhism and the policies of shrine consolidation, Mishima Shrine survived as a central shrine in the region. Throughout the transition from the Showa to the Heisei and Reiwa eras, it has been carefully preserved by the local people and continues to welcome many worshippers as one of the representative shrines of Shikokuchuo City.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Main Deity: Oyamatsumi-no-kami
The main deity of Mishima Shrine is Oyamatsumi-no-kami. Oyamatsumi-no-kami is known as a mountain and sea god appearing in Japanese mythology and is an ancient deity mentioned in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki.
Divine Virtues:
- Faith as a guardian deity of mountains
- Maritime safety and safe navigation
- Long-lasting military fortune
- Business prosperity
- Family safety
Enshrined Deities
In addition to Oyamatsumi-no-kami, the following deities are enshrined at Mishima Shrine:
- Takaokami-no-kami: God of water and rain
- Kamitsuhime-no-kami: Goddess of water
- Shimotsuhime-no-kami: Goddess of water
- Raijin: God of thunder and rain
These enshrined deities played an important role as gods who controlled water and rain in the Uma region, where agriculture was thriving.
Highlights of Mishima Shrine
The Giant Torii Gate Visible from National Route 11
The first thing visitors to Mishima Shrine will see is the giant torii gate standing along National Route 11. This magnificent gate, a symbol of the shrine’s dignity, is visible even from afar. It boasts a convenient location, within a 5-minute walk from the old Mishima shopping street and the train station, making it easily accessible.
The Milk-Producing Ginkgo Tree
The most famous sacred tree on the shrine grounds is the “Milk-Producing Ginkgo Tree.” This giant tree, standing beside the torii gate, is characterized by the aerial roots hanging from various points on its trunk.
There is a legend that drinking a decoction of the bark of these aerial roots will increase a woman’s milk production, hence the name “Milk-Producing Ginkgo Tree.” For centuries, many women have visited to pray for safe childbirth and successful child-rearing, making it a beloved sacred tree among local mothers.
Its estimated age is several hundred years, and it displays beautiful forms throughout the seasons. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the shrine grounds are bathed in golden light, attracting many worshippers and photography enthusiasts.
The Brothers of the Kaya Tree
Within the shrine grounds stand two kaya trees estimated to be 700-800 years old. These two trees are known as the “Brothers of the Kaya Trees” and are beloved by the locals.
Kaya trees are known for their slow growth and longevity. Their age of 700-800 years makes them living witnesses to the long history of Mishima Shrine. The sight of the two kaya trees standing side-by-side appears as if they are brothers leaning against each other, offering a sense of peace to visitors.
Dragon Sculpture
Within the shrine grounds is a place adorned with dragon sculptures, a memorable element for worshippers. Dragons are associated with water deities and are linked to beliefs in rain and protection against floods. This decoration is likely related to the fact that many of the deities enshrined at Mishima Shrine are water deities.
The magnificent and historically significant dragon carvings, a testament to the shrine’s high status, are photographed by many visitors.
Main Hall and Worship Hall
Although the current shrine buildings were constructed in modern times, they retain the traditional style of shrine architecture. The main hall, a sacred space dedicated to Oyamatsumi-no-kami, exudes a solemn atmosphere.
The worship hall is where worshippers offer their prayers, and is visited daily by many local residents and tourists. It offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for a leisurely visit.
Annual Festivals and Events
Grand Festival
The most important festival at Mishima Shrine is the Grand Festival. Held in autumn, this festival features the dedication of taiko drum floats, a traditional part of the region’s culture.
The Taiko Drum Float Festival is a well-known autumn tradition in Shikokuchuo City, where magnificent taiko drum floats parade around the shrine grounds. The energetic shouts of young people and the sound of drums resonate throughout the area, enveloping the entire community in the festival’s excitement. The shrine grounds are lined with numerous stalls and bustling with many worshippers.
Summer Festival and Fireworks Display
In the summer, a fireworks display is held, and the area around Mishima Shrine is bustling with many spectators. Stalls line the shrine grounds and surrounding area, making it a beloved summer tradition in the region.
New Year’s Visit
At the start of the new year, many worshippers visit the shrine for their first shrine visit of the year. As the guardian shrine of the region, many people visit to pray for family safety, business prosperity, academic success, and other blessings.
Other Annual Events
- Setsubun Festival: Bean-throwing ceremony and prayers for protection against evil are held.
- Shichi-Go-San Festival: The shrine is bustling with families celebrating their children’s growth.
- Monthly Festival: Shinto rituals are held regularly every month.
Basic Information about Mishima Shrine
Location and Access
Address: 1-1-53 Mishima Miyagawa, Shikokuchuo City, Ehime Prefecture
Phone Number: Please contact the Ehime Prefectural Shrine Association or the Shikokuchuo City Tourism Association.
Transportation Access
Access by Train:
- Approximately 5-10 minutes on foot from JR Yosan Line “Iyo-Mishima Station”
- Head towards National Route 11 from the station, and you will see a large torii gate.
Access by Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Matsuyama Expressway “Mishima-Kawanoe IC”
- Located along National Route 11, making it easy to find.
Parking: Parking is available on or around the shrine grounds. During festivals, congestion is expected, so using public transportation is recommended.
Visiting Hours
The shrine grounds are generally open for free worship. The shrine office is open during daytime hours, so those wishing to obtain a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or amulet are advised to check in advance.
Recommended Tourist Spots near Mishima Shrine
Sankaku-ji Temple (Shikoku Pilgrimage, Temple No. 65)
Sankaku-ji Temple, one of the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is located about 30 minutes by car from Mishima Shrine. Many pilgrims walk the pilgrimage route to this important temple in Shikoku-Chuo City.
Koen-ji Temple (Shikoku Pilgrimage, Temple No. 61)
Koen-ji Temple is a temple located in Shikoku-Chuo City, characterized by its modern main hall. Many pilgrims visit this temple along with Mishima Shrine.
Suiha Plateau
This plateau, centered around Suiha Peak (892m above sea level), is covered in rapeseed blossoms in spring and early-blooming cosmos in summer. It’s a scenic spot about 40 minutes by car from Mishima Shrine.
Kirinomori (Shingu Tea Village)
A tourist facility in the Shingu area, popular for its sweets made with locally produced tea leaves. “Kirinomori Daifuku” (rice cake filled with sweet bean paste) is particularly well-known as a representative confection of Ehime Prefecture.
Gujo Observatory
An observatory offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, known for its beautiful sunsets. A famous landmark in the Gujo-cho area where Mishima Shrine is located.
Gourmet Information Around Mishima Shrine
Mishima Udon
Shikokuchuo City is also known as a udon noodle producing area, and there are several locally loved udon restaurants around Mishima Shrine. It’s characterized by its firm noodles and flavorful broth.
Seafood from the Seto Inland Sea
Shikokuchuo City faces the Seto Inland Sea, offering a wealth of fresh seafood. Local restaurants and izakayas (Japanese pubs) serve dishes made with seasonal fish and shellfish.
Kirinomori Sweets
The matcha sweets made in the aforementioned Kirinomori are popular souvenirs. Many people purchase them as a memento of their visit to Mishima Shrine.
About the Mishima Faith in Shikoku
The Spread of Mishima Shrine
There are numerous shrines named “Mishima Shrine” throughout Shikoku. This is because shrines were established in various locations, having received a divided spirit from the Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima Island, which enshrines Oyamazumi-no-kami.
Even within Ehime Prefecture alone, there are Mishima Shrines in multiple areas, including Imabari City, Futami-cho in Iyo City, and Shikokuchuo City, each functioning as a center of local faith.
The Ochi Clan and the Mishima Faith
The Ochi clan was a powerful family that held influence in Iyo Province from ancient times to the Middle Ages, and they also served as priests of the Oyamazumi Shrine. It is believed that as the Ochi clan’s power expanded, the Mishima faith also spread, and Mishima shrines were built in various locations.
The Mishima Shrine in Shikokuchuo City has a clear history, having been founded by Ochi Tamazumi, and is an important example demonstrating the spread of the Mishima faith.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Avoid walking in the center of the path (the center is the path for the gods).
- Purify yourself at the water basin.
- Hold the ladle in your right hand and purify your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Finally, stand the ladle upright and purify the handle.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- Bow deeply twice.
- Clap your hands twice.
- Offer your prayer.
- Bow deeply once.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
You can receive a goshuin at Mishima Shrine. Bring your goshuincho (seal book) and politely request one at the shrine office. Remember that the goshuin is proof of your visit, not a stamp rally, and receive it with respect.
The Charm of Mishima Shrine
A Space Where History and Modernity Coexist
The charm of Mishima Shrine lies in its blend of over 1300 years of history with the modern community. While usually quiet and peaceful, the shrine grounds become vibrant during festivals, serving as a place to reaffirm community bonds.
Harmony with Nature
The giant trees on the grounds, such as the Chichide Ginkgo and the Kyodai Kaya trees, are witnesses to the shrine’s history. These sacred trees inspire a sense of reverence for nature.
The Center of Local Faith
Affectionately known as “Mishima-san” by locals, Mishima Shrine is deeply rooted in the lives of the community, from daily visits to prayers for life’s milestones. It continues to be loved across generations as a shrine visited for various life events, including New Year’s visits, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), exorcisms, and weddings.
Visitor Voices
The following are some comments from visitors to Mishima Shrine:
- “The large torii gate visible from the national highway was impressive, so I stopped by. The shrine grounds were quiet and peaceful.”
- “The aerial roots of the Chichide Giant Ginkgo tree were truly mysterious, and I felt the mystery of nature.”
- “The autumn Taikodai Festival was spectacular, and I truly felt the splendor of the region’s traditional culture.”
- “I’m visiting Mishima Shrines in Shikoku, and the dragon carvings here were particularly impressive.”
- “It’s close to the station and easily accessible, so you can visit without hesitation.”
Summary
Mishima Shrine, located in Mishima Miyagawa, Shikokuchuo City, Ehime Prefecture, is a historical shrine founded during the Nara period. With Oyamatsumi-no-kami as its main deity, it has been the guardian shrine of the region for over 1300 years, attracting the faith of the people.
It boasts many attractions, including the sacred trees such as the Chichide Giant Ginkgo and the Kyodai Kaya, as well as dragon carvings. Various events are held throughout the year, including the autumn Taikodai Festival and the summer fireworks display.
Easily recognizable by its massive torii gate along National Route 11, and conveniently located within walking distance of JR Iyo-Mishima Station, Mishima Shrine boasts excellent accessibility. When visiting Shikokuchuo City, be sure to stop by Mishima Shrine and experience its long history and local faith.
In its tranquil grounds, you can find peace of mind, feel the vitality of the sacred trees, and immerse yourself in the region’s traditional culture—Mishima Shrine is a place that reminds us of important things that modern people often forget.
