Meishin-taisha

Isonokami Jingu

石上神宮

Nijunisha
Admission
Free
Goshuin (Temple Seal)
300 yen
Access
30 min walk
Hours
5:30-17:30

Overview

Isonokami Jingu is one of Japan's most ancient and historically significant shrines. In the Nihon Shoki, only two shrines are referred to as 'Jingu' (literally 'divine palace'): Ise and Isonokami, indicating its supreme status in ancient times. The shrine served as the imperial armory in antiquity, storing sacred weapons including the legendary sword Futsu-no-Mitama used in the mythological conquest of Japan. Among its treasures is the Shichishito (Seven-Branched Sword), a 4th-century bronze sword inscribed with characters indicating it was a gift from the Korean kingdom of Baekje in 369 CE. This National Treasure is one of the most important archaeological artifacts in East Asian history. Free-roaming roosters (chickens) in the shrine grounds are a beloved feature, considered sacred birds that announce the dawn.

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

God of swords, martial prowess, and national pacification

secondary Deity

God of swords, martial prowess, and national pacification

Blessings

Shrine Network

Did You Know?

💡

Only Ise and Isonokami were called 'Jingu' in the Nihon Shoki, making this arguably the second-holiest shrine in ancient Japan.

Source: documented

💡

The Shichishito (Seven-Branched Sword) is a 4th-century diplomatic gift from Korea that is a National Treasure and key artifact of East Asian history.

Source: documented

💡

Sacred roosters roam freely through the shrine grounds.

Source: documented

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

34.5972, 135.8517

Physical Address

384 Furu-cho, Tenri-shi, Nara

奈良県天理市布留町384

Access

Tenri Station (JR/Kintetsu)

30 min walk

Hours

5:30-17:30

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Related Shrines

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Isonokami Jingu?

Isonokami Jingu is one of Japan's most ancient and historically significant shrines. In the Nihon Shoki, only two shrines are referred to as 'Jingu' (literally 'divine palace'): Ise and Isonokami, indicating its supreme status in ancient times. The shrine served as the imperial armory in antiquity, storing sacred weapons including the legendary sword Futsu-no-Mitama used in the mythological conquest of Japan. Among its treasures is the Shichishito (Seven-Branched Sword), a 4th-century bronze sword inscribed with characters indicating it was a gift from the Korean kingdom of Baekje in 369 CE. This National Treasure is one of the most important archaeological artifacts in East Asian history. Free-roaming roosters (chickens) in the shrine grounds are a beloved feature, considered sacred birds that announce the dawn.

Where is Isonokami Jingu located?

Isonokami Jingu is located in Tenri-shi, Nara. The full address is: 384 Furu-cho, Tenri-shi, Nara.

What deities are enshrined at Isonokami Jingu?

The enshrined deities are: Futsunushi no Kami, Futsunushi no Kami.

What blessings can you pray for at Isonokami Jingu?

Isonokami Jingu is known for: Health & Healing, Longevity, Protection, General Prosperity.

How do I get to Isonokami Jingu?

The nearest station is Tenri Station (JR/Kintetsu). It is about a 30-minute walk from the station.