Complete Guide to Hongu Shrines
Hongu Shrines are a general term for historically significant shrines located throughout Japan. In many cases, the name “Hongu” is used to designate the central shrine within a particular religious area. This article provides detailed information on the characteristics, blessings, worship methods, and access information for representative Hongu Shrines.
What are Hongu Shrines?
“Hongu” refers to shrines with particularly long histories, serving as the main shrine for branch and subsidiary shrines. Multiple “Hongu Shrines” exist throughout Japan, each revered as a center of local faith.
Main Hongu Shrines
- Kumano Hongu Taisha (Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture): The center of the Kumano Sanzan (Three Grand Shrines of Kumano)
- Ise Jingu Naiku (Ise City, Mie Prefecture): Officially known as “Kotai Jingu”
- Izumo Taisha (Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture): The head shrine for matchmaking
- Suwa Taisha Kamisha Hongu (Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture): The center of Suwa faith
Deities and Benefits
Main Deities
The deities enshrined at Hongu shrines vary from shrine to shrine.
In the case of Kumano Hongu Taisha:
- Ketsumimiko-no-Okami (Susanoo-no-Mikoto)
- Revered as one of the three Kumano Gongen deities
In the case of Suwa Taisha Kamisha Hongu:
- Takeminakata-no-Kami
- Yasakatome-no-Kami
Expected Benefits
At Hongu shrines, you can expect the following benefits:
1. Good Fortune and Protection from Evil
Due to its high status as a Hongu (main shrine), it is believed to offer powerful protection from evil and good fortune. It is ideal for visiting at life’s milestones or when starting a new chapter.
2. Family Safety and Prosperity
Many visitors come to pray for the health and prosperity of their families. It is especially crowded at the beginning of the year and during family milestones.
3. Matchmaking and Fulfillment of Good Relationships
Izumo Taisha and Kumano Hongu Taisha are particularly famous for their blessings in matchmaking. They are believed to be effective not only for romantic relationships but also for good relationships with people in general.
4. Business Prosperity and Success
Many business owners visit these shrines to pray for business success and prosperity.
Points for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
How to Pass Through the Torii Gate
- Bow before the torii gate
- Avoid walking in the center of the path (the center is the path for the gods)
- Prepare your mind before entering the shrine grounds
How to Purify Yourself at the Water Basin
- Hold the ladle in your right hand and purify your left hand
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand
- Hold the ladle in your right hand again, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth
- Purify your left hand once more
- Hold the ladle upright, purify the handle, and return it to its original position
How to Worship at the Main Hall
- Quietly place your offering in the offering box
- Ring the bell (if present)
- Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow
- Bow deeply twice
- Clap twice (at chest height)
- Pray with sincerity
- Finally, bow deeply once
Dress Code Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
- Clothing to Avoid: Excessive exposure, sandals, overly flashy clothing
- Recommended Clothing: Clean, understated clothing, comfortable walking shoes
- For Formal Visits: Suits or formal Japanese attire are preferable
Recommended Time to Visit
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00): Enjoy a peaceful visit in the fresh air
- Weekday Mornings: Avoid crowds
- Times to Avoid: Weekend afternoons, the first three days of the New Year, and festival days are extremely crowded
Etiquette for Receiving a Goshuin (Shrine Stamp)
- Go to the Goshuin office after completing your prayers
- Present your Goshuin book with both hands
- Politely request a Goshuin, saying “I would like a Goshuin, please”
- Prepare the offering fee (usually 300-500 yen)
- Thank the staff by saying “Thank you” after receiving the stamp
Access Information
Access to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine
By Train and Bus
- From JR Kisei Main Line “Shingu Station”: Take the Kumano Kotsu Bus and get off at “Hongu Taisha-mae” (approx. 90 minutes)
- From JR Kisei Main Line “Kii-Tanabe Station”: Take the Ryujin Bus and get off at “Hongu Taisha-mae” (approx. 120 minutes)
By Car
- Approximately 80 minutes from Hanwa Expressway “Nanki-Tanabe IC” via National Routes 42 and 311
- Free parking available (approx. 100 cars)
Address
1110 Hongu, Hongu-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture 647-1731
Access to Suwa Taisha Kamisha Hongu Shrine
By Train and Bus
- From JR Chuo Main Line “Chino Station”: Take the Karin-chan Bus and get off at “Kamisha Hongu” (approx. 25 minutes)
- From JR Chuo Main Line “Kami-Suwa Station”: Take the Karin-chan Bus (approx. 35 minutes)
By Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from Chuo Expressway “Suwa IC”
- Free parking available (approx. 50 cars)
Address
1 Miyayama, Nakasu, Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture 392-0015
Other Hongu Shrines
For access to Hongu Shrines in various locations, it is recommended to check the latest information on the official website or tourist association in advance. Traffic restrictions may be in place, especially during winter and festivals.
Notes on Visiting
Manners on the Shrine Grounds
- Photography: Photography is often prohibited inside the main hall. Please be sure to check the following:
- Food and Drink: Please refrain from eating or drinking outside of designated areas.
- Pets: Generally prohibited (except for assistance dogs such as guide dogs).
- Smoking: Smoking is prohibited throughout the shrine grounds.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (March-May): Beautiful cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. The annual festival is sometimes held.
- Summer (June-August): Many events such as the Summer Purification Ceremony and summer festivals.
- Autumn (September-November): Magnificent autumn foliage. Harvest festivals and autumn festivals.
- Winter (December-February): New Year’s visits and Setsubun festivals. Some shrines offer beautiful snowscapes.
Summary
Honmiya Shrine is a shrine with a long history as a center of faith throughout Japan. When visiting, it is important to observe basic etiquette and pray with sincerity. Please check access methods and visiting hours in advance and plan your visit with ample time.
Spending time in a sacred place is a precious opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find peace of mind. Please visit Hongu Shrine and experience its solemn atmosphere and rich history.
