Hime Shrine (Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Deities, Goshuin (Shrine Seal), and Access Information
Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, has several “Hime Shrines,” each with its own unique history and beliefs. This article provides a detailed explanation of the representative Hime Shrines in Matsuura City, including their history, enshrined deities, visiting information, and access methods.
About Hime Shrines in Matsuura City
Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, has two main prominent Hime Shrines. One is the “Chinzei Ise Bungu Hime Shrine” located in Mikuriya-cho, and the other is the “Yodohime Shrine” located in Shisa-cho. There is also a Hime Shrine in Kitakubomen, Hoshika-cho. Each of these shrines enshrines different deities and has its own unique history.
Main Hime Shrines in Matsuura City
- Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine (Mikuriya-cho): Enshrines a divided spirit of Ise Grand Shrine
- Yodohime Shrine (Shisa-cho Uramen): Enshrines Yodohime-no-Mikoto
- Hime Shrine (Hoshika-cho Kitakubomen): Corporate Number 8310005006334
These shrines have a long history as centers of local faith and continue to attract many worshippers.
Details of Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine (Mikuriya-cho)
History and Origin
Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine is a shrine located in Mikuriya-cho, Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, and is a historically significant shrine with deep ties to Ise Grand Shrine.
Founding History
The founding of Hime Shrine dates back to the mid-Heian period. On September 9, 963 (Owa 3), the first chief priest, Morikawa Kuro Masahiro, a Shinto priest of Ise Grand Shrine, set sail from Ise carrying a divided spirit of Ise Grand Shrine. The group traveled by sea and landed at Izumi, Mikuriya-cho.
The following year, in 964 (Koho 1), the shrine was established in Kanbara (present-day Nakano area), and the name “Hime Daimyojin” was bestowed upon it. This marked the beginning of Hime Shrine.
History of Relocation
75 years later, following a divine dream of the enshrined deity, the shrine was relocated to its current location during the time of the fourth chief priest, Morikawa Naiki Masahiro. This occurred on March 21, 1040 (Chokyu 1), and since then, it has continued to attract worshippers to this site.
Deities Enshrined
Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine enshrines a divided spirit invited from Ise Grand Shrine, and eight deities are enshrined within its grounds. The main deities enshrined are Amaterasu Omikami and other gods, giving it a status befitting the name “Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine.”
Subsidiary Shrine and Sarutahiko Shrine
Within the grounds is Sarutahiko Shrine, which is revered as the god of traffic safety. Sarutahiko Okami is known as the god of opening paths and guidance, and is worshipped as a god who opens the way to safe travel and the path of life.
In modern times, many worshippers visit the shrine, especially to pray for safe driving, and it plays an important role as a guardian deity of traffic safety in the region.
Details of Yodohime Shrine (Shisa-cho)
History and Founding
Yodohime Shrine is a shrine located at 632 Uramen, Shisa-cho, Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture. Its founding is extremely ancient, with a ceremony of appeasing spirits and enshrining the deity said to have taken place on the 26th day of the 9th month of the 24th year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign (563 AD). This is over 1,460 years ago, making it one of the oldest shrines in the Matsuura region.
About the Deity, Yodohime-no-Mikoto
The deity enshrined at Yodohime Shrine is Yodohime-no-Mikoto. Yodohime-no-Mikoto is worshipped as the goddess of the sea and water, and is particularly known for the following divine virtues:
The Legend of Yodohime-no-Mikoto
It is said that Yodohime-no-Mikoto received the Two Tide-Controlling Jewel from the Dragon King. With this sacred treasure, she was able to part the sea for battle and freely control the tides.
While possessing an aspect as a goddess of war, she also has a gentle side, having lived among the people after battles, bringing compassionate rain and healing illnesses. Thus, she is beloved in the region as a “fearsome yet kind goddess.”
Divine Virtues of Yodohime-no-Mikoto
- Maritime Safety: As a goddess of the sea, she protects safe voyages.
- Prayers for Abundant Catch: Deeply revered by those involved in fishing.
- Healing of Illness: Believed to have the power to heal illnesses.
- Prayers for Rain: As a goddess who brings compassionate rain.
- Good Fortune in Competition: Due to her aspect as a goddess of war.
Characteristics of Yodohime Shrine
Yodohime Shrine operates an official website, “Yodohime Shrine WEB,” which disseminates information about the shrine’s history, the legend of Yodohime-no-Mikoto, and festivals. It remains a center of local faith, with various festivals and prayers being held there.
About Hime Shrine (Kitakubomen, Hoshika-cho)
Hime Shrine, located at 541 and 542 Kitakubomen, Hoshika-cho, Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is a religious corporation registered under corporate number 8310005006334.
This Hime Shrine is a shrine that attracts the faith of the local community, and many worshippers visit it. While detailed information about its history is currently limited, it plays an important role as a place of worship rooted in the community.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Issuance of Goshuin
Hime Shrine in Matsuura City offers Goshuin (shrine seals). In particular, at the Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine, you can receive a prestigious Goshuin that signifies its connection to Ise Grand Shrine.
Points to Note When Receiving a Goshuin
Goshuin are given as proof of worship. Please pay attention to the following points when visiting.
- First, visit the main shrine before receiving your goshuin (shrine stamp).
- Check the shrine office’s opening hours in advance.
- Bring your goshuincho (stamp book) (pre-printed stamps may be available).
- Prepare the offering (generally 300-500 yen).
- Respond with polite language and demeanor.
Many visitors look forward to collecting goshuin, cherishing them as a memento of their visit to Matsuura City and as proof of their faith.
Visiting Information and Access
Access to Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine
Location: Mikuriya-cho, Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Matsuura IC
- Parking: Visitor parking available on the shrine grounds
Access by Public Transportation
- Within walking distance from Mikuriya Station on the Matsuura Railway Nishikyushu Line
- If using a local bus, walk from the nearest bus stop
Access to Yodohime Shrine
Location: 632 Uramen, Shisa-cho, Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from Matsuura IC
- Close to the center of the Shisa area
Access by Public Transportation
- Approximately 5 minutes by car from Matsuura Station on the Matsuura Railway Nishikyushu Line
- Local buses towards Shisa are available
Precautions When Visiting
- Visiting is generally permitted, but please avoid early mornings and late nights
- The shrine grounds are a sacred place. Please worship in silence.
- Photography is permitted, but there are restrictions in some areas, such as inside the main hall.
- Please take your trash with you.
- If you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or prayers, please check the reception hours of the shrine office.
Annual Events and Festivals
Main Festivals
Hime Shrine in Matsuura City holds various festivals throughout the year.
Annual Grand Festival
Each shrine holds its annual grand festival, featuring a portable shrine procession and Kagura (sacred dance) performances. It is the busiest day of the year for the shrine, with local people gathering.
New Year’s Visit
Many worshippers visit the shrine for their first shrine visit of the new year. They pray for safety throughout the year, family well-being, and business prosperity.
Monthly Festival
Monthly festivals are held regularly each month, praying for the maintenance of the shrine and the peace and security of the community.
Individual Prayers
Various types of prayers are also accepted.
- Prayer for traffic safety (especially at Hime Shrine, a branch shrine of Chinzei Ise Shrine, where Sarutahiko Shrine is located)
- Family safety
- Business prosperity
- Protection from evil
- Prayer for safe childbirth
- First shrine visit for a newborn
- Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3) ceremony
If you wish to have a prayer performed, it is recommended that you contact the shrine in advance to discuss the date and time.
History of Matsuura City and the Role of Hime Shrine
Historical Background of Matsuura City
Matsuura City is located in the northern part of Nagasaki Prefecture and has flourished since ancient times as a key point for maritime traffic. It is also known as the base of the Matsuura clan and has a history of active naval forces in the Middle Ages.
Connection with Ise Grand Shrine
As indicated by Hime Shrine, a branch shrine of Chinzei Ise Shrine, this region has had a deep connection with Ise Grand Shrine since ancient times. The fact that a Shinto priest from Ise Grand Shrine brought a divided spirit to this area during the Heian period speaks to the importance of the Matsuura region at that time.
Maritime Worship
As exemplified by Yodohime Shrine, Matsuura City’s shrines retain a strong tradition of worship related to the sea and water. This is a characteristic unique to a coastal region, and the belief in the safety of fishing and maritime traffic continues to this day.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Highlights in Matsuura City
When visiting Hime Shrine, we recommend also visiting nearby tourist attractions.
Matsuura Historical Museum (Matsuura City Buried Cultural Properties Center)
This facility allows you to learn about the history of the Matsuura clan and Matsuura City. It is also helpful in understanding the historical background of Hime Shrine.
Tsuchiya Rice Terraces
Beautiful rice terraces selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Rice Terraces. A spectacular view of the sea unfolds.
Takashima Island
A historically important island where a Mongol ship sunk during the Mongol invasions was discovered. It is attracting attention as an underwater archaeological site.
Aoshima Island
An outlying island of Matsuura City where you can enjoy beautiful nature and peaceful times.
Matsuura City’s Gourmet Food
- Fried Horse Mackerel: Matsuura City boasts a large catch of horse mackerel, and fresh fried horse mackerel is a local specialty.
- Seafood Cuisine: A wide variety of dishes using fresh seafood are available.
- Matsuura Pickles: Traditional local pickles.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
Basic Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
Let’s review the basic etiquette for visiting shrines.
How to Pass Through a Torii Gate
The torii gate is the entrance to the sacred area. Bow before passing through. Since the center of the path is considered the path of the gods, it is polite to walk along the side.
Proper Ritual of Washing Hands
- Take the ladle with your right hand and wash your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Wash your left hand again.
- Hold the ladle upright, let water flow over the handle, and return it to its original position.
Worship at the Main Hall
- Gently place your offering in the offering box.
- If there is a bell, ring it.
- Perform the two bows, two claps, one bow (bowing deeply twice, clapping twice, bowing deeply once).
- Recite your wish silently in your heart.
Attire for Worship
Everyday clothes are fine, but please pay attention to the following points.
- Avoid clothing that exposes too much skin.
- Proper shoes are preferable to sandals or flip-flops.
- Remove your hat before passing through the torii gate.
- Dress neatly and cleanly.
The Current State of Faith at Hime Shrine
Its Role in Modern Times
Hime Shrine in Matsuura City continues to play an important role as a center of local faith. It is a place cherished by many people, visited for life’s milestones such as New Year’s visits, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), and exorcisms, as well as a place to express daily gratitude and wishes.
Connection with the Local Community
Shrines are not merely religious facilities; they are also centers of local communities. Through festivals and events, they serve as places where local people gather and interact. Especially during major festivals such as the annual grand festival, intergenerational exchanges are fostered, strengthening community bonds.
Balancing Tourism and Faith
In recent years, with the rise of the Goshuin (shrine stamp) boom, the number of people visiting shrines for tourism has increased. Hime Shrine, while maintaining its original role as a place of faith, warmly welcomes visitors.
They are also focusing on disseminating information, such as by launching an official website, and their operations are designed with consideration for visitors from afar.
Summary
The Hime Shrines in Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, are valuable shrines, each with its own unique history and beliefs.
Chinzei Ise Branch Shrine Hime Shrine is a venerable shrine founded in the Heian period, enshrining a divided spirit of Ise Grand Shrine. Sarutahiko Shrine, dedicated to traffic safety, is also enshrined within its grounds.
Yodohime Shrine boasts a history of approximately 1,460 years and is an ancient shrine dedicated to Yodohime-no-Mikoto, the goddess of the sea. The legend of the two tide-controlling jewels and the belief in her as a gentle goddess who brings compassionate rain are still passed down today.
Hime Shrine in Hoshika-cho is also cherished as a place of worship for the local community.
These shrines are important entities that convey the history and culture of Matsuura City to the present day, and serve as a spiritual anchor for the people of the region. When you visit Matsuura City, be sure to pay your respects at these Hime Shrines and experience the faith that has been nurtured over a long history.
Through your visit, you can find peace of mind in the tranquil atmosphere of the shrines, express your gratitude for your daily life, and gain the strength to move forward with a renewed spirit. The Hime Shrines of Matsuura City gently welcome and watch over all who visit.
