Shikina-gu Shrine (Okinawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Benefits, and Access of the Eight Ryukyu Shrines
What is Shikina-gu Shrine?
Shikina-gu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Hantagawa, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, and is one of the “Eight Ryukyu Shrines” specially designated by the Ryukyu Kingdom. It is located approximately 1 km southwest of Shuri Castle and close to the World Heritage site, Shikina-en Garden.
Although it is a small shrine quietly nestled in a residential area, it boasts a dignified history dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era and is affectionately known as “Shikina Gongen” by the locals. While it was an unranked shrine under the modern shrine ranking system of the Meiji era, its historical value and high spiritual efficacy have made it an important place of worship, attracting many visitors even today.
Deities Enshrined at Shikina-gu Shrine
Shikina-gu Shrine enshrines the three Kumano deities.
Main Deities
- Izanami-no-Mikoto
- Hayatama-no-Mikoto
- Kotosaka-no-Mikoto
These deities have the same divine status as the Kumano Gongen of mainland Japan, indicating that Kumano faith was introduced to Okinawa during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Kumano Gongen is believed to offer a wide range of blessings, including healing from illness, matchmaking, and protection from evil. Shikina Shrine, in particular, is known for its strong faith in health and healing from illness, stemming from a legend that the shrine cured a prince’s illness.
History and Origins of Shikina Shrine
Legend of its Founding
Detailed information about the founding of Shikina Shrine can be found in the Ryukyu Kingdom’s historical record, “Iro Setsuden.”
According to tradition, a mysterious light shone in Shikina Village night after night. When villagers investigated the source of the light, they discovered a statue of Binzuru (a Buddhist deity) enshrined inside a cave. This discovery became the impetus for the founding of Shikina Shrine.
Recovery of King Sho Gen and His Prince
The direct impetus for the founding of Shikina Shrine was the illness of Sho Kohaku, the eldest son of King Sho Gen (reigned 1556-1572). When the prince fell seriously ill, prayers were offered at Shikina Cave, and miraculously, he recovered. It is said that King Sho Gen, in gratitude, founded Shikina Shrine in this location.
Due to this event, Shikina Shrine received special reverence from the Ryukyu Kingdom and became a prestigious shrine, counted among the eight major Ryukyu shrines.
The Status of the Eight Ryukyu Shrines
The Eight Ryukyu Shrines are eight shrines that the Ryukyu Kingdom government considered particularly important, and include the following:
- Naminoue-gu
- Okino-gu
- Shikina-gu
- Futenma-gu
- Sueyoshi-gu
- Asato Hachiman-gu
- Ameku-gu
- Kin-gu
These shrines played an important role in the national rituals of the Ryukyu Kingdom and were protected by the royal government. Among them, Shikina-gu holds a special position due to its deep connection with the royal family.
Destruction and Reconstruction During the Battle of Okinawa
In 1945, the shrine buildings of Shikina-gu were completely destroyed by fire during the Battle of Okinawa. For some time after the war, the shrine remained in a state of dilapidation, but thanks to the efforts of local residents and worshippers, the shrine buildings were rebuilt in 1968.
Furthermore, in 2013, the worship hall was rebuilt, resulting in the clean and beautiful shrine buildings we see today. Having survived the ravages of war and been rebuilt, Shikina-gu symbolizes the strength of the Okinawan people’s faith and their desire to preserve their culture.
Shikina-gu Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Stone Torii Gate and Approach
The entrance to Shikina-gu Shrine is marked by a stone torii gate standing along the road. It’s easy to miss as it’s located in a residential area, but this torii gate is an important landmark when searching for the shrine.
After passing through the torii gate, a somewhat long approach leads to the shrine. The approach, leading away from the hustle and bustle of the city and into a quiet space surrounded by greenery, has a calming effect on the mind.
Worship Hall and Main Shrine
After passing through the approach to the shrine, you’ll see the new worship hall standing on a green lawn. Rebuilt in 2013, the worship hall is clean and well-maintained.
On either side of the worship hall sit guardian lion-dogs (komainu), but these are slightly different from those on the mainland, possessing a unique form that seems to be a combination of a lion and a dragon. It’s an interesting design that reflects Okinawa’s unique culture.
Looking at the roof of the main shrine, you’ll see dragon decorations on both ends of the tiled roof, evoking the architectural beauty of the Ryukyu style, reminiscent of the main hall of Shuri Castle.
Cave with Sacred Stone
The biggest highlight of Shikina Shrine is the cave behind the main shrine. This cave is the place where Shikina Shrine was founded, and it enshrines a sacred stone.
If you go around to the back via the passage on the left side facing the main shrine, you’ll find the entrance to a small cave. Normally the cave doors are closed, but the doors are opened on the 1st and 15th of each month, allowing visitors to enter.
A legend persists that wishes are granted in this cave, and many worshippers choose these special days to visit. It remains a place of profound faith, known for its miraculous healing of a prince.
Unique Komainu (Divine Beasts)
The Komainu at Shikina Shrine have a unique appearance, resembling a dragon or a lion, a characteristic not seen in shrines on the mainland, and are unique to Okinawa. These divine beasts symbolize the fusion of Ryukyuan and Japanese culture and are a popular spot for photography.
Benefits of Shikina Shrine
Shikina Shrine is believed to offer the following benefits:
Healing from Illness and Prayer for Good Health
Due to the miraculous healing of the prince who founded the shrine, it is considered particularly effective for healing from illness and prayers for good health. Many people suffering from serious illnesses or chronic ill health visit the shrine.
Fulfillment of Wishes
There is a legend that wishes made in the cave will come true, and many worshippers with various wishes visit the shrine. Especially on the 1st and 15th of each month, when the cave is open, many people come to make their wishes.
Protection from Evil and Good Fortune
Because it enshrines Kumano Gongen, it is believed to offer protection from evil and good fortune. Many people visit at turning points in their lives or when starting something new.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Goshuincho (Shrine Seal Books)
About Goshuin
You can receive a Goshuin (shrine seal) at Shikina-gu Shrine. As one of the eight Ryukyu shrines, it is an important spot for shrine enthusiasts who collect Goshuin.
Original Goshuincho (Shrine Seal Books)
Shikina-gu Shrine began distributing original Goshuincho around November 2017. These Goshuincho, featuring designs unique to Shikina-gu Shrine, are popular as souvenirs.
For details regarding Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) and Goshuincho (stamp books), please inquire at the shrine office during your visit.
Access
Location
Address: 4-1-43 Hantagawa, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture
Nearest Station
Using the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yui Rail):
- Shuri Station: Approximately 1,570m (approximately 20 minutes on foot)
- Gibo Station: Approximately 1,700m (approximately 22 minutes on foot)
- Asato Station: Approximately 1,910m (approximately 25 minutes on foot)
Since it is a bit of a distance from the nearest stations, using a bus or taxi is recommended.
Access by Bus
Take a local bus running within Naha City and get off at the “Hantagawa” bus stop. It’s a few minutes’ walk from there. Bus routes and timetables can be found on the Naha Bus official website.
Access by Car
It’s approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Naha Airport. You can visit Shikina-gu Shrine in conjunction with sightseeing at Shuri Castle and Shikina-en Garden.
Parking
Shikina-gu Shrine has a parking lot for visitors. Officially, there are two spaces, but some sources suggest there’s actually space for around five cars. However, since space is limited, it’s advisable to consider using public transportation.
Points and Precautions for Visiting
Visiting Hours
Shikina-gu Shrine is generally open for worship during the day, but if you wish to enter the cave, you must visit on the 1st and 15th of each month. It’s recommended to plan your visit to coincide with these special days.
Dress Code and Manners
Please observe basic shrine etiquette. Avoid revealing clothing and worship quietly. Since it’s located in a residential area, please be considerate of the surrounding residents.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but it’s recommended to check in advance regarding photography inside the main hall and cave. Also, please be considerate of other visitors.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
The following tourist attractions are located near Shikina Shrine:
- Shikinaen: A former villa of the Ryukyu royal family, registered as a World Heritage Site. Visitors can stroll through its beautiful gardens.
- Shuri Castle: The royal castle of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Approximately 10 minutes by car from Shikina Shrine.
- Hantagawa Community Center: Located right next to Shikina Shrine.
Shikina Shrine and Ryukyu Culture
Beliefs of the Ryukyu Kingdom Era
Shikina Shrine is a valuable example of the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. The Kumano Gongen faith, a blend of Buddhist and Shinto elements, reflects the unique religious culture of Ryukyu.
Connection with the Local Community
From its post-war reconstruction to the present day, Shikina Shrine has been carefully preserved by local residents. The well-maintained grounds speak to the faith and strong desire for cultural preservation of the local people.
Characteristics of Okinawan Shrine Architecture
The architectural style of Shikina-gu Shrine exhibits a unique blend of mainland Japanese shrine architecture and traditional Ryukyuan architecture. Elements unique to Okinawa, such as the dragon decorations on the tiled roof and the distinctive guardian lion-dogs, can be seen throughout.
Significance of Visiting Shikina-gu Shrine
Although small in scale, Shikina-gu Shrine is a profoundly deep shrine where layers of history of the Ryukyu Kingdom, memories of the Battle of Okinawa, and continuing faith exist.
When visiting famous tourist spots such as Shuri Castle and Shikinaen Garden, extending your trip slightly to visit Shikina-gu Shrine will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Okinawan history and culture. Especially if you can visit on the 1st and 15th of each month, you can enter the sacred cave and directly experience a place of prayer that has continued since the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
Why not quietly pray in this tranquil sanctuary amidst a residential area, reflecting on Okinawan history?
Summary
Shikina-gu Shrine, one of the eight major Ryukyu shrines, is an important shrine that conveys the history and culture of Okinawa to the present day. It boasts a long and distinguished history dating back to the time of King Sho Gen, miraculous healing powers, and a legend of a cave where wishes are granted, among many other attractions.
There are plenty of sights to see, including the beautifully rebuilt main hall (2013), unique guardian lion-dogs, and the mystical cave that opens on the 1st and 15th of each month. Visiting it in conjunction with Shuri Castle and Shikinaen Garden will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the faith and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
When visiting Naha City, be sure to visit Shikina-gu Shrine and spend some time finding peace in this tranquil sanctuary where the history of Ryukyu breathes.
