Miyazaki Shrine

Miyazaki Shrine (宮崎神宮, Miyazaki Jingū) is the city’s most revered and historically significant Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, Japan’s legendary first emperor and a central figure in the country’s founding mythology. Said to date back over 2,600 years, the shrine holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for the region. Its unadorned cedar structures, built in traditional shinmei-zukuri style, are quietly nestled within a tranquil forest setting, creating a serene atmosphere that invites reflection and reverence. The shaded paths leading to the shrine are lined with tall trees, enhancing the natural beauty and peaceful ambiance of this sacred site.

Throughout the year, Miyazaki Shrine serves as a vibrant hub for seasonal festivals and traditional ceremonies. One of its most captivating events is yabusame, a form of horseback archery in which skilled riders in traditional attire gallop down a narrow track, shooting arrows at wooden targets with remarkable precision—reviving ancient martial arts in a spiritual context. The shrine’s close proximity to the Miyazaki Prefectural Museum makes it easy for visitors to combine spiritual exploration with cultural learning, offering a well-rounded experience that highlights the depth of Miyazaki’s historical and mythological heritage.