About Tsukiyomi-no-miya
Tsukiyomi-no-miya is an ancient shrine located in Nakamura-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, serving as a sub-shrine of the Inner Shrine (Kotai Jingu) of Ise Grand Shrine. Founded in the 9th century (early Heian period), it enshrines Tsukiyomi-no-mikoto, the god of the moon, as its principal deity.
The four shrine buildings, neatly arranged in a single row, are unified in the Shinmei-zukuri style unique to Ise Grand Shrine, creating a tranquil space surrounded by trees. Despite being approximately 4 km away from the Inner Shrine, it maintains its status and sacredness as a sub-shrine.
Deities Enshrined
Tsukiyomi-no-miya enshrines four deities, and the shrine buildings are arranged from right to left in the following order:
Tsukiyomi-no-miya (First Sub-Shrine)
The main hall enshrining Tsukiyomi-no-mikoto. He is considered the younger brother of Amaterasu Omikami and is revered as the god of the moon who rules the night.
Tsukuyomi Aramitama Shrine (Second Auxiliary Shrine)
This shrine enshrines the Aramitama (fierce spirit) of Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto. The Aramitama represents the fierce and powerful aspect of the god and is believed to grant positive wishes.
Izanagi Shrine (Third Auxiliary Shrine)
This shrine enshrines Izanagi-no-Mikoto. He is the male deity who created the land in Japanese mythology and the father of Amaterasu Omikami and Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto.
Izanami Shrine (Fourth Auxiliary Shrine)
This shrine enshrines Izanami-no-Mikoto. She is the wife of Izanagi-no-Mikoto and is known as the goddess of the creation myth.
Points to Note When Visiting
Order of Worship
At Tsukuyomi-no-miya Shrine, the formal procedure is to worship from right to left. Proceed in the order of Tsukuyomi-no-miya → Tsukuyomi-no-aramitama-no-miya → Izanagi-no-miya → Izanami-no-miya. Perform two bows, two claps, and one bow in front of each shrine.
Tranquil Worship Environment
Compared to the Inner and Outer Shrines, there are fewer worshippers, allowing for a more relaxed experience of connecting with the deities. The tranquil atmosphere is particularly pronounced in the early morning and on weekdays, allowing for a peaceful and calming worship experience.
Photography Etiquette
Photography inside the shrine buildings is prohibited. While it is possible to photograph the entire complex from outside the torii gate, please be considerate of other worshippers.
Benefits and Divine Virtues
Tsukuyomi-no-miya Shrine is believed to offer the following benefits:
- Safety and Harmony in the Family: Because the divine couple Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto are enshrined here.
- Purification of Mind and Body: Spiritual healing through the pure power of the moon god.
- Protection of Agriculture and Fisheries: Prosperity of livelihoods related to the phases of the moon.
- Safe Childbirth and Fertility: Divine blessings related to the creation myth of Japan.
- Protection from Evil and Good Fortune: Powerful protection of the fierce spirit.
Access
Public Transportation
- From Kintetsu/JR Ise-shi Station, take the Mie Kotsu bus and get off at the “Nakamuracho” bus stop, then walk for about 3 minutes.
- From Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station, take the Mie Kotsu bus and get off at the “Nakamuracho” bus stop, then walk for about 3 minutes.
- Approximately 50 minutes on foot from the Inner Shrine (Naiku) (approx. 4km).
By Car
- Approximately 5 minutes from the Ise-Nishi Interchange on the Ise Expressway.
- Dedicated parking available (free, approximately 30 spaces)
Location
742-1 Nakamuracho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture
Visiting Hours and Notes
Visiting Hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Admission Fee: Free
Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp): Available at the reception area (300 yen)
Tsukuyomi-no-miya, as a sub-shrine of Ise Grand Shrine, offers a deeper pilgrimage experience when visited together with the Inner and Outer Shrines. It is a sacred space where you can feel the harmony of the sun and moon, yin and yang.
