What is a Giant Shimenawa? A Complete Guide to the Meaning, Highlights, and Visiting Spots of Japan’s Largest Shimenawa
Basic Knowledge of Giant Shimenawa
What is a Shimenawa?
A shimenawa is a sacred object in Shintoism that serves as a boundary separating sacred places from the secular world. Made by weaving rice straw, it is displayed on the torii gates, worship halls, and sacred trees of shrines. It is also written as “shimenawa” or “shichigosanawa,” and its origins can be traced back to the Ama-no-Iwato myth.
Characteristics and Meaning of Giant Shimenawa
Giant shimenawa are significantly larger than ordinary shimenawa, with diameters exceeding 1 meter and lengths exceeding 10 meters. Their immense size symbolizes the high status of the shrine and the importance of the sacred area, creating a visual effect that inspires awe in worshippers.
Thick straw ropes are adorned with white paper strips called shide, and sometimes auspicious items such as oranges and ferns are added. The thickness, length, and weaving method of the ropes vary from shrine to shrine, each imbued with its own unique tradition and meaning.
One of Japan’s most representative locations for large Shimenawa (sacred ropes)
Izumo Taisha Shrine (Shimane Prefecture)
Basic Information
- Location: 195 Kitzuki-Higashi, Taisha-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
- Size of Shimenawa: Approximately 13.6m in length, approximately 5.2 tons in weight
- Features: The large Shimenawa at the Kagura-den (sacred dance hall) is known as one of the largest in Japan.
Highlights
The large Shimenawa hanging at the Kagura-den of Izumo Taisha Shrine captivates visitors with its overwhelming presence. It is uniquely woven in the opposite direction to typical Shimenawa, a style unique to the Izumo region. It is replaced every six years by local people, with over 1000 people participating in the process.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Optimal Time for Photography: Beautiful photos are taken in the soft light of the morning.
- Procedure for Worship: The formal procedure at Izumo Taisha Shrine is “two bows, four claps, one bow.”
- Notes: While it was previously customary to throw coins into the shrine, this is now prohibited to protect the sacred rope (shimenawa).
Access
- Train: Approximately 25 minutes by Ichibata Bus bound for “Izumo Taisha” from JR Izumo-shi Station.
- Car: Approximately 15 minutes from the San’in Expressway “Izumo IC.”
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 385 spaces).
Miyajidake Shrine (Fukuoka Prefecture)
Basic Information
- Location: 7-1 Miyajimotomachi, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Size of Shimenawa: Approximately 11m in length, 2.6m in diameter, and weighing approximately 3 tons.
- Features: Known as “Japan’s largest shimenawa.”
Highlights
The large shimenawa (sacred rope) hanging over the main shrine is truly impressive in its thickness and weight. Every December, a new shimenawa is hung, and this ceremony, known as the “Great Shimenawa Hanging Festival,” attracts many worshippers. At dusk, the setting sun aligns perfectly with the large shimenawa, creating a “path of light” phenomenon. This spectacular sight can only be enjoyed twice a year (February and October).
Points to Note When Visiting
- Path of Light: Best time to visit is at dusk in late February and late October.
- Three Japan’s Best: The large shimenawa (sacred rope), large drum, and large bell together make up the “Three Japan’s Best.”
- Goshuin (Shrine Seal): Seasonal limited-edition goshuin are also popular.
Access
- Train: Approximately 5 minutes by bus from JR Fukuma Station, get off at “Miyajidake Jinja-mae” bus stop.
- Car: Approximately 20 minutes from the Kyushu Expressway “Koga IC.”
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 1000 spaces).
Omiwa Shrine (Nara Prefecture)
Basic Information
- Location: 1422 Miwa, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture
- Size of Shimenawa: The shimenawa at the main hall is approximately 10m long.
- Features: One of the oldest shrines in Japan, with Mount Miwa itself being the sacred object of worship.
Highlights
The large shimenawa (sacred rope) hanging over the worship hall of Omiwa Shrine exudes an ancient and dignified atmosphere. As a shrine that preserves a primitive form of worship, lacking a main sanctuary and considering Mount Miwa as its sacred object, the shimenawa strongly emphasizes its role as a sacred boundary.
Points of Interest During Your Visit
- Climbing Mount Miwa: Climbing Mount Miwa, the sacred mountain, is possible with prior application.
- Sai Shrine: You can receive the sacred water from the Yakui-ido well.
- Omiwa no Mori Observation Deck: A spectacular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Yamato Basin.
Access
- Train: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR Miwa Station.
- Car: Approximately 30 minutes from the Tenri IC on the Nishi-Meihan Expressway.
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 150 spaces).
Other Notable Spots
Sata Shrine (Shimane Prefecture): Known for its unique reverse-facing shimenawa (sacred rope) characteristic of the Izumo region.
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Fukuoka Prefecture): A magnificent shimenawa within the grounds dedicated to the god of learning.
Ise Grand Shrine (Mie Prefecture): Highly esteemed shimenawa at both the Inner and Outer Shrines.
Benefits and Faith of the Large Shimenawa
Main Benefits
Shrines with large shimenawa ropes are believed to offer various benefits due to the power of their sacred boundary.
- Matchmaking: Famous for many shrines with large shimenawa ropes, including Izumo Taisha
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Improved luck through receiving the powerful energy of the sacred area
- Protection from Evil: The power of the boundary wards off evil spirits
- Business Prosperity: At shrines dedicated to the god of commerce, such as Miyajidake Shrine
- Family Safety: Praying for the peace and well-being of the family through divine protection
Guidelines for Visiting
When passing under a large shimenawa rope, be mindful that you are entering a sacred area and purify your heart before praying. Following the points below will lead to a more fulfilling visit.
- Attire: Please wear clean and understated clothing.
- Ritual for Washing Hands: Please purify your body and mind at the water basin before praying.
- Photography Manners: Please be considerate and avoid disrupting worshippers.
- Quietness: Please remain quiet and refrain from making loud noises in the sacred area.
Production and Replacement of the Large Shimenawa (Sacred Rope)
Production Process
The production of the large shimenawa requires advanced skills and many hands.
- Material Preparation: Several tons of high-quality rice straw are prepared.
- Straw Beating: The straw is softened and unnecessary parts are removed.
- Rope Weaving: Multiple craftsmen cooperate to weave a thick rope.
- Decoration: Paper streamers and auspicious objects are attached.
- Transportation and Installation: The rope is carefully installed using cranes, etc.
Significance of Replacement
Many shrines periodically replace their shimenawa with new ones. This is not merely a measure to address aging infrastructure, but has religious significance in renewing its sanctity and maintaining the purity of the sacred area. The reconstruction work itself is performed as a religious ceremony, and it also plays a role in strengthening the bonds of the local community.
Points to Consider When Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Season of fresh greenery and pleasant weather
- Autumn (September-November): Enjoy the autumn foliage along with the shrine’s colors
- New Year’s: Bustling with New Year’s visits, but offers a special atmosphere
- Bridge Reconstruction Period: Visiting during the reconstruction ceremonies at each shrine offers a valuable experience
Estimated Time Required
- Izumo Taisha: 1-2 hours for visiting the grounds, half a day including sightseeing in the surrounding area
- Miyajidake Shrine: 2-3 hours for visiting and viewing the Path of Light
- Omiwa Shrine: 1 hour for visiting only, half a day including climbing Mt. Miwa
Combining with Surrounding Sightseeing
Around Izumo Taisha: Hinomisaki Shrine, Inasa Beach, Izumo soba noodle restaurant hopping
Around Miyajidake Shrine: Tsuyazaki Senken, Miyajihama Beach
Around Omiwa Shrine: Hase-dera Temple, Murō-ji Temple, Miwa Somen Noodles
Summary
The large shimenawa (sacred rope) is an important sacred object symbolizing Japanese Shinto culture, and its immense size and grandeur leave a deep impression on visitors. At famous locations throughout Japan, including Izumo Taisha, Miyajidake Shrine, and Omiwa Shrine, you can see large shimenawa with their own unique history and traditions.
When visiting, checking access methods and proper worship etiquette beforehand, and spending time quietly in the sacred space, will lead to a deeper spiritual experience. Visiting during special events such as the rope replacement or the “Path of Light” will create even more memorable experiences.
