Complete Guide to Ikime Shrine (Miyazaki Prefecture, Miyazaki City) | Benefits for Healing Eye Diseases, History, and Visiting Information
About Ikime Shrine
Ikime Shrine, located in Ikime, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, is a shrine known nationwide for its benefits in healing eye diseases. It has long been revered as “Hyuga’s Ikime-sama” and “Hyuga’s Ikime Hachiman-sama,” and is known as a highly sacred shrine attracting worshippers not only from Kyushu but also from Hokkaido and Honshu.
The shrine is situated on a hill called Kameiyama, facing east, and its name comes from the fact that its topography resembles the shape of a turtle. The shrine grounds are home to many ancient trees that tell of history, including a large ginkgo tree and camphor trees, selected as one of Miyazaki Prefecture’s 100 Great Trees, creating a solemn atmosphere.
History and Origins of Ikime Shrine
Founding and Historical Background
While the exact founding date of Ikime Shrine is unknown due to the loss of many documents in the Genki and Tensho eras, the “Usa Daikagami” records that it was established in Tenki 4 (1056). This falls within the late Heian period, indicating that it is an ancient shrine with nearly a thousand years of history.
Deep Connection with Taira no Kagekiyo
An essential aspect of understanding the history of Ikime Shrine is its connection to Fujiwara no Kagekiyo (Taira no Kagekiyo), a warrior from the late Heian period. After the Taira clan’s defeat by the Minamoto clan at the Battle of Dan-no-ura (1185), Kagekiyo was captured by the Minamoto. However, his bravery impressed Minamoto no Yoritomo, the enemy’s commander-in-chief, and he was spared the death penalty and exiled to Hyuga Province (present-day Miyazaki Prefecture).
Kagekiyo spent the rest of his life in Hyuga Province, but a tragic legend remains that, overwhelmed by the grief over the fall of the Taira clan, he gouged out his own eyes. Ikime Shrine was built to appease the spirit of Lord Kagekiyo, and it is believed that the shrine came to be worshipped as the “God of Eyes” due to the legend surrounding Lord Kagekiyo’s eyes.
Destruction and Reconstruction Due to War
During the wars of the Genki and Tensho periods (1570-1592), Ikime Shrine was destroyed by fire, and the main hall and many historical documents were lost. This period was a time of intense conflict among warring daimyo throughout Kyushu, and many shrines and temples suffered damage. However, thanks to the deep faith of the local people, the shrine was rebuilt, and the worship of the “God of Eyes” has been continuously passed down to the present day.
Deities and Beliefs
Main Deity
The main deity of Ikime Shrine is Emperor Suinin, the eleventh emperor. Emperor Suinin is an emperor who appears in the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki, and is said to have left behind many achievements during his reign.
Furthermore, Fujiwara no Kagekiyo, mentioned earlier, is also enshrined as a deity, and is deeply connected to the belief in healing eye diseases. Kagekiyo’s bravery and tragic legend form the core of the faith at Ikime Shrine.
Miraculous Healing of Eye Diseases
Ikime Shrine became known nationwide as the “God of Eyes” because of the long-standing belief that it has miraculous powers to heal eye diseases. The name “Ikime” itself is said to originate from the belief that it is a deity effective in curing eye diseases.
Even today, worshippers from all over the country visit the shrine with various eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, myopia, hyperopia, and eye strain. Especially in modern times, with the spread of computers and smartphones, the number of people experiencing eye fatigue has increased, and this faith is once again attracting attention.
Spring Water of Kameiyama
Within the shrine grounds, sacred water known as “Kameiyama Spring Water” springs forth. This water is also revered for its efficacy in treating eye diseases. Since ancient times, worshippers have washed their eyes with this spring water, praying for the healing of eye diseases and the restoration of their eyesight. Even today, many worshippers visit seeking this sacred water.
Shrine Buildings and Highlights of the Grounds
Main Hall and Shrine Architecture
The main hall of Ikime Shrine is built facing east on the hillside of Kameiyama. Rebuilt after being destroyed by fire during the Genki and Tensho eras, the shrine building preserves the traditional style of shrine architecture in the Hyuga region. The vermilion-lacquered shrine building exudes a solemn atmosphere, welcoming worshippers.
Approach and Stone Steps
The approach leading from the foot of Kameiyama to the main hall is a tranquil space surrounded by lush greenery. As you climb the stone steps, you can feel the sunlight filtering through the ancient trees. Walking along this approach to the shrine will allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and cleanse your mind.
The Giant Ginkgo Tree, One of Miyazaki Prefecture’s Top 100 Giant Trees
The most striking feature of the shrine grounds is the giant ginkgo tree, selected as one of Miyazaki Prefecture’s Top 100 Giant Trees. This colossal tree, estimated to be several hundred years old, stands tall within the grounds as a living witness to the history of Ikime Shrine. In autumn, its leaves turn golden, beautifully coloring the shrine grounds.
Camphor Tree and Magnolia obovata
A magnificent camphor tree stands on the north side of the main shrine, and a Magnolia obovata (magnolia tree) is planted on the south side. These ancient trees are also an important element in creating the solemn atmosphere of the shrine grounds, quietly watching over the history of the shrine.
Shrines within the Grounds
In addition to the main shrine, several smaller shrines are located within the grounds of Ikime Shrine.
Yasaka Shrine
Located beneath the Magnolia obovata tree south of the main shrine, Yasaka Shrine is known for its blessings of warding off disease and misfortune. It was established by inviting a deity from Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine and is worshipped as a god protecting the health of the local people.
Wakamiya Shrine
Located beneath the camphor tree north of the main shrine, Wakamiya Shrine is worshipped as a god watching over the healthy growth of children. Local families can be seen visiting for Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children) and Hatsumiyamairi (a first shrine visit for newborns).
These subsidiary shrines also demonstrate the diversity of faith at Ikime Shrine, reflecting its history of welcoming worshippers with various wishes, not just for healing eye diseases.
Rituals and Annual Events
Ikime Kagura
One of the important rituals at Ikime Shrine is the “Ikime Kagura.” This kagura is a traditional performing art passed down from ancient times, a sacred dance expressing gratitude and prayer to the gods. Offered on specific festival days, it holds an important position as a local cultural asset.
The offering of Kagura plays a crucial role in passing on the history and traditions of the shrine to future generations, and is carefully preserved with the cooperation of local residents.
Festival and Grand Festival
Various rituals are held at Ikime Shrine throughout the year. Many worshippers visit the shrine grounds during the festival, creating a lively atmosphere. The rituals held on Saturdays, in particular, attract many worshippers from far away.
At the Grand Festival, traditional rituals such as the offering of Kagura and the procession of the portable shrine are solemnly performed, making it an important opportunity to strengthen the bonds of the local community.
Cultural Assets
Wooden Divine Masks of Ikime Shrine (Two Masks)
Ikime Shrine houses the “Wooden Divine Masks of Ikime Shrine (Two Masks),” a cultural asset designated by Miyazaki City. These masks have been used in rituals such as Kagura, and are recognized for their exquisite carving techniques and historical value.
These cultural artifacts are valuable historical materials that tell the story of the long history of Ikime Shrine and the transmission of local beliefs and culture.
Relationship with Other Ikime Shrines
There are shrines named “Ikime Shrine” throughout Japan, not just the one in Miyazaki City. In particular, there are shrines with the same name in Kagoshima Prefecture and Osaka Prefecture, all known for their efficacy in curing eye diseases.
Many of these shrines are thought to have been established by inviting deities from the Ikime Shrine in Miyazaki, or as a result of similar beliefs spreading throughout the country. In particular, the Ikime Shrine in Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, has records indicating that it was established by inviting deities from Hyuga Province, demonstrating the nationwide spread of the faith of the Miyazaki Ikime Shrine.
Access and Visiting Information
Location
345 Ikeme, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture 880-0921
Transportation Access
By Public Transportation:
- Approximately 25 minutes by bus from JR Miyazaki Station
- Get off at the “Ikeme Shrine” bus stop and it’s a short walk.
By Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Miyazaki Interchange on the Miyazaki Expressway
- Parking available on the shrine grounds
Visiting Hours
The shrine grounds are generally open for worship all day, but the shrine office is only open during the daytime. If you wish to obtain a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or amulet, it is recommended to check in advance.
Etiquette for Visiting the Shrine
When visiting Ikime Shrine, please observe the following etiquette:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Avoid walking in the center of the path (the center is the path of the gods).
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the purification fountain.
- At the main shrine, worship using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Maintain silence within the shrine grounds and refrain from speaking loudly.
- Take photographs only in designated areas.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Around Ikime Shrine, there are numerous spots where you can experience Miyazaki’s history and culture.
Ikime Kofun Cluster
Near Ikime Shrine is the “Ikime Kofun Cluster,” a large group of ancient burial mounds from the Kofun period. This cluster, centered around keyhole-shaped burial mounds, is an important historical site for understanding Miyazaki’s ancient history.
Miyazaki City Center
Located about 20 minutes by car from Ikime Shrine, Miyazaki City center is home to numerous representative shrines of Miyazaki, including Miyazaki Jingu, Aoshima Shrine, and Udo Jingu. Shrine hopping is highly recommended.
The Modern Significance of Ikime Shrine
The “God of Eyes” in the Digital Age
In modern society, eye strain and vision problems caused by prolonged use of computers and smartphones are serious issues. Against this backdrop, the worship of Ikime Shrine as the “God of Eyes” is arguably becoming even more important in the modern age.
People of all ages, including business professionals, students, and the elderly, visit the shrine to pray for eye health, demonstrating how this ancient faith is being passed down with contemporary significance.
As a Center of the Local Community
While Ikime Shrine is nationally known for its miraculous healing powers for eye diseases, it also plays a vital role as a spiritual pillar of the local community. Through festivals and religious ceremonies, local residents gather, creating a place for the transmission of traditional culture and strengthening community bonds.
Summary
Ikime Shrine, with its nearly thousand-year history, is a representative shrine of Miyazaki Prefecture, renowned nationwide for its blessings of healing eye diseases. The belief in it as the “God of Eyes,” stemming from the tragic legend of Taira no Kagekiyo, continues to be a source of solace for many people today.
The shrine grounds offer numerous attractions, including the main shrine building situated on the hillside of Kameiyama, ancient trees such as the large ginkgo and camphor trees (selected as one of Miyazaki Prefecture’s 100 Giant Trees), the Kameiyama spring, and the traditional Ikime Kagura dance. Furthermore, the subsidiary shrines within the grounds, such as Yasaka Shrine and Wakamiya Shrine, reflect the shrine’s history of embracing diverse beliefs.
Although many historical documents were lost in the fires of the Genki and Tensho eras, the shrine was preserved through the fervent faith of the local people and continues to be affectionately known as “Hyuga’s Ikime-sama” to this day. In today’s digital age, its significance as a god protecting eye health is increasing, and it will undoubtedly continue to welcome many visitors in the future.
When you visit Miyazaki, why not pay a visit to Ikime Shrine and experience its history and spiritual power for yourself?
