Funae Kami Shrine (Ise City, Mie Prefecture) Complete Guide | Deities, History, Access, and Event Information
Funae Kami Shrine, located in Tsujikuru, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, is a local guardian shrine affectionately known as “Gozu-san.” Despite its proximity to the Outer Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine, it is a deeply rooted community shrine, carefully preserved by parishioners from four areas: Nakajima, Tsujikuru, Futamata, and Uraguchi. This article comprehensively covers everything you need to know before visiting Funae Kami Shrine, including its deities, history, highlights within the grounds, detailed access information, and annual events.
Basic Information on Funae Kami-sha Shrine
Official Name and Location
Official Name: Kami-sha (上社)
Common Name: Funae Kami-sha, Gozu-san
Location: 1-13-6 Tsujikuru, Ise City, Mie Prefecture 516-0066
Funae Kami-sha Shrine is located in the urban area of Ise City, relatively close to the Outer Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine. It is a quiet shrine nestled in a residential area, and is revered by local residents as the guardian deity of the region.
Shrine Status and History
Funae Kami-sha Shrine functions as the guardian deity of the region, with the four areas of Nakajima, Tsujikuru, Futamata, and Uraguchi serving as its parish. Due to its location near Ise Grand Shrine, it has played an important role as a spiritual pillar of the region since ancient times.
While there are no clear records regarding the shrine’s founding date, the existence of a sword donated in 1721 (Kyoho 6) during the Edo period confirms that it has a history of at least 300 years.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Main Deity
The deity enshrined at Funae Kami Shrine is a local guardian deity, but confirmation of the specific deity’s name is recommended on-site. The affectionate nickname “Gozu-san” suggests a deep connection with the local people.
Divine Virtues (Benefits)
As a local guardian deity, the following divine virtues are believed to be bestowed:
- Family Safety: Protection of the peace and security of homes in the parish area
- Community Safety: Peace and prosperity for the entire community
- Abundant Harvest: Development of agriculture and industry
- Protection from Evil: Protection from disasters
- Prosperity of Descendants: Continuation and development of the family lineage
Highlights and Treasures of the Shrine Grounds
Treasures
Funae Kami Shrine possesses two valuable treasures:
- Lion’s Head: One head is preserved and is a historical sacred treasure that has been used in festivals and other ceremonies. The lion dance is an indispensable part of traditional events to ward off evil spirits and pray for a bountiful harvest.
- Sword: One sword donated in 1721 (Kyoho 6). These offerings, dating back over 300 years, are invaluable cultural artifacts that speak to the deep faith of the parishioners at that time.
These shrine treasures serve as important evidence of the history of Funae Kami Shrine and its connection to the local community.
Subsidiary Shrines within the Precincts
A notable feature of Funae Kami Shrine is that subsidiary shrines of Ise Grand Shrine (Toyouke Daijingu, Outer Shrine) are enshrined within its grounds:
Subsidiary Shrines
- Shitomi Shrine
One of the subsidiary shrines of Ise Grand Shrine’s Outer Shrine. Originally located elsewhere, it is also enshrined within the grounds of Funae Kami Shrine.
- Okouchi Shrine
Also a subsidiary shrine of the Outer Shrine. It plays an important role as a guardian deity of the region.
Subsidiary Shrines
- Uchikake Shrine
One of the subsidiary shrines of the Outer Shrine. The fact that these subsidiary shrines are enshrined within the same grounds demonstrates the deep connection between Funae Kami Shrine and Ise Grand Shrine.
By having these subsidiary shrines within the grounds of Funae Kami Shrine, visitors have the valuable opportunity to pay their respects at multiple shrines in a single visit.
Detailed Access Information
Access by Train
Walking Route from the Nearest Station
From Yamada-Kamiguchi Station (Closest Station)
- Line: JR Sangū Line
- Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes on foot (approx. 805m)
- Route: Exit the station and head south, passing through the residential area to arrive.
From Miyamachi Station
- Line: JR Sangū Line/Kintetsu Yamada Line
- Travel Time: Approximately 16 minutes on foot (approx. 1.2km)
- Route: Head northeast from the station.
Access by Bus
From Kaminoyashiro Bus Stop (Most Convenient)
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 minutes on foot (approx. 103m)
- Bus Stop Name: Kaminoyashiro
- Route: Mie Kotsu City Bus
The bus stop is very close, making it the most convenient access method if using the bus.
Access by Car
Route from Major Roads
From the Ise Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Ise-Nishi Interchange
- Approximately 20 minutes from Ise Interchange
From National Route 23
- Proceed towards the city center and follow the signs to the Tsujikuru area.
Parking Information
Due to the size of the shrine, dedicated parking may be limited. Please note the following when visiting:
- Be considerate of local residents.
- Avoid street parking.
- During festivals, congestion is expected, so using public transportation is recommended.
Access from Ise Grand Shrine
From the Outer Shrine (Toyouke Daijingu)
- On foot: Approximately 20 minutes
- By car: Approximately 5 minutes
Convenient location for visiting in conjunction with a visit to the Outer Shrine.
Annual Festivals and Events
Main Annual Events
At Funae Kami Shrine, various festivals and events are held throughout the year in collaboration with the local community as the guardian deity of the area.
Regular Festivals
Annual Festival (Autumn Grand Festival)
Time: Mid-October (Specific dates may vary from year to year)
Content: The most important festival of the year. Parishioners gather, and a portable shrine procession and dedication ceremonies take place. A lion’s head may also be used.
Spring Festival
Time: Around April
Content: A festival to pray for a bountiful harvest and the safety of the community
Monthly Festival
Regular festivals held on fixed days each month
Life Cycle Rituals
As a local shrine, the following life cycle rituals are also performed:
- First Shrine Visit: Prayers for the healthy growth of a baby around one month old
- Shichi-Go-San: A celebration of children’s growth, centered around November 15th
- Exorcism: Prayers for protection against misfortune for those in their unlucky years
- Safety Prayer: Prayers for safety for new cars, new houses, etc.
*For detailed dates and times of festivals, we recommend contacting the shrine directly or checking through the Mie Prefecture Shrine Association.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Visiting Etiquette
- Bow Before Passing Through the Torii Gate
As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate. 2. Purifying at the Water Basin
- Take the ladle with 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.
- Etiquette at the Main Hall
- Quietly place your offering in the offering box.
- Ring the bell if there is one.
- Perform the two bows, two claps, one bow (bowing deeply twice, clapping twice, bowing deeply once).
- Visiting the Subsidiary Shrines within the Precincts
Please also visit the Shitomi Shrine, Okouchi Shrine, and Uchikake Shrine.
Attire and Items to Bring When Visiting
- Attire: Clean and subdued clothing is desirable. Avoid extreme exposure.
- Items to bring: Offering money, first fruits offering (if receiving prayers)
Attractions around Funae Kamisha Shrine
Ise Grand Shrine (Geku and Naiku)
Distance: Approximately 1.5km to Geku
After visiting Funae Kamisha Shrine, be sure to also visit Ise Grand Shrine’s Geku and Naiku. Since some of the Geku’s subsidiary shrines are located within the Funae Kamisha Shrine grounds, you’ll feel a special connection.
Ise City
Okage Yokocho: Traditional streetscape in front of Naiku
Geku Sando: Street lined with restaurants and souvenir shops
Nearby Shrines and Temples
Ise City has many shrines and temples besides Funae Kamisha Shrine. Enjoying a shrine tour is also recommended.
Connection with the Community
Parishioner Area
Funae Kamisha Shrine has the following four areas as its parishioners:
- Nakajima District
- Tsujikuru District
- Futamata District
- Uraguchi District
For the residents of these areas, Funae Kamisha Shrine is an integral part of their lives and is affectionately called “Gozu-san.”
Center of the Community
As the guardian deity, Funae Kamisha Shrine plays a central role in the community. Through events such as the annual festival, it becomes a place for intergenerational exchange and an important place for deepening community bonds.
Shrine Culture of Ise City
Relationship with Ise Grand Shrine
Ise City has a unique shrine culture centered around Ise Grand Shrine. Shrines like Funae Kamisha Shrine, which enshrine subsidiary shrines of the Outer Shrine within their grounds, demonstrate a deep connection with the Grand Shrine.
Shrines in Mie Prefecture
The Mie Prefectural Shrine Association comprises 815 shrines, and Funae Kami Shrine is one of them. Mie Prefecture, being the home of Ise Grand Shrine, has a long history of flourishing Shinto culture.
Precautions When Visiting the Shrine
Photography
- Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking photos during festivals or in sacred areas.
- Please be considerate of other visitors.
- Prior confirmation is required before taking photos inside the shrine building.
Visiting Hours
- Entry to the shrine grounds is generally permitted during the daytime.
- The shrine office’s operating hours may be limited.
- Prior contact is recommended if you wish to request a prayer service.
Pets
- As this is a sacred area, it is generally discouraged to bring pets.
- If unavoidable, please carry your pet or take other precautions.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) and Gift Information
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
Whether you can receive a Goshuin at Funae Kamisha depends on the staffing situation at the shrine office. As it is a small shrine, it may not always be possible to receive one. Those wishing to receive a Goshuin are advised to check in advance.
Items Offered
As a local guardian shrine, the following items may be available:
- Amulets
- Talismans (Shinto talismans)
- Ema (votive tablets)
- Omikuji (fortune slips)
*For details on the items offered, please contact the shrine directly.
Contact Information
Direct Inquiries
You can find direct contact information for Funae Kami Shrine through the following:
Mie Prefecture Shrine Association
Provides comprehensive information on shrines in Mie Prefecture.
Website: https://www.mie-jinjachou.page/
Ise City Tourism Information
Ise City Tourism Association
Provides information on tourist spots and shrines in Ise City
Summary of Points for Visiting Funae Kamisha Shrine
- A Locally Beloved Guardian Deity: A community-oriented shrine affectionately known as “Gozu-san”
- Deep Connection with Ise Grand Shrine: A valuable shrine where subsidiary shrines of the Outer Shrine are enshrined within its grounds
- Easy Access: 10-minute walk from Yamada-Kamiguchi Station, 2-minute walk from Kami-no-sha bus stop
- Historical Treasures: A sword and lion’s head donated in 1721 (Kyoho 6)
- Visit Multiple Shrines at Once: Shitomi Shrine, Okouchi Shrine, and Uchikake Shrine are also located within the grounds
- Visit in Conjunction with Ise Grand Shrine: Easily accessible within walking distance of the Outer Shrine
In conclusion
Funae Kamisha Shrine is a local guardian shrine that has long been a part of the community in the special land of Ise. Unlike the solemnity of Ise Grand Shrine, it welcomes visitors with a warm, community-rooted atmosphere.
When visiting Ise Grand Shrine, please consider extending your trip a little to visit Funae Kamisha Shrine as well. You will feel a special connection to the fact that a subsidiary shrine of the Outer Shrine is enshrined within the same grounds, and you will be able to experience the history and culture of the region.
Please enjoy a peaceful moment of worship at Funae Kamisha Shrine, affectionately known as “Gozu-san” by the locals.
