Visit HYOGO

This venerable shrine in Sannomiya, the heart of Kobe, has a history going back around 1,800 years. The name “Kobe,” written with the characters for “god” and “door/house,” is even said to have originated from Ikuta Shrine, which is easily accessed in around 10 minutes’ walk from JR Sannomiya Station or the stations of the various private railways. It bustles with both local people and large numbers of visiting worshippers. The shrine’s main deity is Wakahirume-no-Mikoto, the peaceful nigimitama aspect of the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. She is well-known as the god of marriage, and Ikuta Shrine is Kobe’s most famous power spot with a never-ending number of people praying for fulfillment in love.

The shrine grounds, with an expanse of lush nature that you would not expect to find in the center of a city, include Ikuta Forest, known as the site of an ancient battle during the Gempei War of the 12th century, and you can feel the history here. There are also subordinate shrines dedicated to the god of the sea (Daikai Jinja Shrine) and the god of sake (Matsuo Jinja Shrine). The row of crimson torii gates of the Inari Shrine, dedicated to the god of rice, are also a highlight.

Ikuta Shrine’s unique “water mikuji” fortune slips are also popular among visitors. If you soak these slips in the water of the pond in Ikuta Forest, text will appear: you’ll surely find yourself captivated by its mysterious appearance. The shrine’s seal also has a beautiful design, with Ikuta Forest and the crimson torii gates. The limited-time seals given out during certain seasons and events are must-sees.