Motoisekago Shrine
This ancient shrine is known as Moto-Ise because of the legend that Amaterasu Omikami and Toyouke Omikami—enshrined at Ise Grand Shrine—were originally enshrined here before being moved to Ise.
It became the Ichinomiya (primary shrine) of Tango Province during the Nara period, and was designated a Meishin Taisha (Great Shrine of the Divine Names) in the *Engishiki* of the Heian period. As the only Grand Shrine along the San’in Road, it boasts the highest shrine rank and a distinguished history.
In front of the main hall, the five-colored “Sue-tama” (sacred stones), which are permitted to be enshrined only at Ise Grand Shrine and Kago Shrine, shine brilliantly.
This ancient shrine is known as Moto-Ise because of the legend that Amaterasu Omikami and Toyouke Omikami—who are enshrined at Ise Grand Shrine—were originally transferred from this location to Ise.
It became the Ichinomiya (primary shrine) of Tango Province during the Nara period, and was designated a Myojin Taisha (Major Shrine of the Divine) in the *Engishiki* of the Heian period. As the only Grand Shrine along the San’in Road, it boasts the highest shrine ranking and a distinguished history.
In front of the main hall, the five-colored “Sue-tama” (sacred stones), which are permitted to be enshrined only at Ise Grand Shrine and Kago Shrine, shine brilliantly.
Basic Information
- Season
- Year-round
- Closed Days & Excluded Dates
- None (Open year-round)
- Meeting Time & Hours of Operation
- February–November: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
December–January: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
*Hours may be extended on weekends, holidays, and other days. - Duration
- About 30 minutes
- Language Support
- Staff: Japanese(For foreign languages, we use translation apps on our smartphones.)
- Accessibility
- Yes
Pricing
- List Price
- Free
Access & Meeting Place
- Parking Information
- 25 large buses and 150 passenger cars
Operator Information
- Address
- 430 Ogaki, Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Phone Number
- 0772-27-0006
- Official Website
- https://www.motoise.jp/
Area & City/Town Introduction (Miyazu City)
Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, is a town rich in natural beauty located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, facing the Sea of Japan. Home to “Amanohashidate”—one of Japan’s Three Great Views—the area boasts a beautiful coastline and lush, green mountains, offering breathtaking scenery throughout the four seasons. Another major attraction is its rich culinary culture, featuring dishes made with fresh seafood and ingredients from the Tango region. The area also boasts numerous temples, shrines, and historic streetscapes brimming with history and culture, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing and relaxing getaways. As the heart of “Marine Kyoto,” it continues to captivate visitors from far and wide.

