About Mishiodono Shrine
Mishiodono Shrine is a shrine located in Futami-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, and is one of the subsidiary shrines of Ise Grand Shrine. It has played an important role since ancient times as a sacred place for the production and storage of “mishio” (sacred salt) used in the rituals of Ise Grand Shrine.
History and Origins of Mishiodono Shrine
Background of Founding
The exact founding date of Mishiodono Shrine is unclear, but given that salt is essential for the rituals of Ise Grand Shrine, it is believed that salt production began around the same time as the shrine’s founding. Its existence is also mentioned in the Engishiki (a historical document), indicating that it was already an established system during the Heian period.
Method of Producing Mishio
Mishio is produced using traditional methods, drawing seawater from the Mishiohama salt beach in Futamiura. Specifically, it follows the following steps:
- Brithing: Seawater is poured onto the sand of the sacred salt field and dried in the sun.
- Brine Extraction: Concentrated brine is extracted from the salt-containing sand.
- Boiling: The brine is boiled down at the salt-making facility to produce salt.
- Offering: The finished salt is offered to the Mishiodono Shrine and then offered to Ise Grand Shrine.
This salt-making process is carried out twice a year, in March and October, and is still practiced today as the “Mishiodono Salt-Making Ritual.”
Deities and Benefits
Deities
The shrine enshrines the Mishiodono Guardian Deity. This deity is revered as the protector of salt and the god of purity.
Benefits
The benefits of Mishiodono Shrine include the following:
- Exorcism and Purification: Salt has been believed since ancient times to have the power to ward off impurities, and is thought to be effective in purifying the mind and body and warding off evil.
- Health and Longevity: As a shrine that handles sacred salt, it attracts worshippers who pray for health and longevity.
- Family Safety: Due to its power to maintain a clean environment, it is believed to bring peace and safety to the home.
- Business Prosperity: As salt is essential for daily life, many people pray for business prosperity.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
The Salt Hall
This is the central building of the shrine, where the sacred salt is stored. The simple thatched-roof building is a valuable example of ancient shrine architecture.
The Salt Burning Place
Located near the Salt Hall Shrine, this is where the salt is actually boiled down. It may be possible to observe during Shinto rituals.
Mishiohama
Located in Futamiura, this salt field is a sacred place where seawater is drawn. It’s within walking distance of Mishioden Shrine, and a visit to both is recommended.
Proper Etiquette for Visiting the Shrine
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: Show respect before entering the sacred area.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Hold the ladle in your right hand and purify your left hand, then hold the ladle in your left hand and purify your right hand, and finally rinse your mouth.
- Two bows, two claps, one bow: Bow deeply twice before the shrine, clap your hands twice, and finally bow deeply once.
- Quietly stroll through the grounds: Visit the salt hall and surrounding facilities and feel the sacred atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
- Salt Burning Ritual (March & October): A rare opportunity to witness actual salt making.
- Early Morning: Visit in a tranquil atmosphere for a more sacred experience.
- Weekdays: Fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
Access Information
Access by Train
- Approximately 25 minutes on foot from JR Sangū Line “Futamiura Station”
- Approximately 20 minutes by bus from Kintetsu “Ujiyamada Station”, get off at “Mishioden Shrine Mae” bus stop
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from Ise Expressway “Ise IC”
- Approximately 5 minutes from Ise Futami Toba Line “Futami JCT”
- Parking: Several free parking spaces available (use parking lots around Futamiura during peak hours)
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Futami Okitama Shrine (Meotoiwa Rocks): Approximately 15 minutes on foot, a shrine famous for matchmaking
- Ise Grand Shrine Outer Shrine: Approximately 20 minutes by car
- Ise Grand Shrine Inner Shrine: Approximately 25 minutes by car
- Ise Sea Paradise: Approximately 20 minutes on foot, an aquarium where you can enjoy interacting with marine animals
Basic Information
- Location: 2019 Futami-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0596-24-1111 (Ise Grand Shrine Office)
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are open freely (Interior of the Shioden is not open to the public)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Goshuin (Shrine Seal): None (As it is a subsidiary shrine, it is included in the Ise Grand Shrine’s Goshuin)
- Official Website: Information is available on the Ise Grand Shrine’s official website
Summary
The Shioden Shrine is a sacred place where the salt essential for the rituals of Ise Grand Shrine is produced. While it may seem unassuming as a tourist destination, it is a valuable cultural heritage site that preserves traditional Japanese salt-making techniques. When visiting Futamiura, why not visit this quiet and sacred shrine in addition to the Meoto Iwa (Married Couple Rocks)? The pure air and ancient, dignified atmosphere are sure to soothe your soul.
