Izumo Taisha Shrine

Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine, located in Ise, Mie Prefecture. Dedicated to Amaterasu, the sun goddess, it comprises the Inner Shrine and Outer Shrine. With approximately 2,000 years of history, it uniquely practices Shikinen Sengu, rebuilding its structures every 20 years. Attracts over 6 million pilgrims annually.

Izumo Taisha in Shimane Prefecture enshrines Okuninushi, the nation-building deity. The unique 'Kamiarisai' (Deity Festival) in lunar October gathers all Japan's deities. Pilgrims experience mythology-linked journeys like the 'Hare of Inaba' tale. A paramount sacred site symbolizing ancient Izumo culture.

Three major Shinto shrines in southern Wakayama: Kumano Hongu, Kumano Hayatama, and Kumano Nachi. Considered one of Japan's holiest pilgrimage destinations with over 1,000 years of devotional history. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 as part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.

A grand shrine complex in Ise, Mie Prefecture, consisting of the Inner Shrine dedicated to Amaterasu and the Outer Shrine dedicated to Toyouke. Considered the highest shrine in Shintoism, its Shikinen Sengu (20-year reconstruction ceremony) is Japan's most significant Shinto ritual. The nation's holiest site, attracting approximately 6 million pilgrims annually.

Japan's highest-ranked shrine located in Ise, Mie Prefecture. Comprising the Inner and Outer Shrines, it enshrines Amaterasu, the supreme sun goddess. Traditionally dated to the 4th century BCE, it maintains the unique tradition of Shikinen Sengu (shrine rebuilding) every 20 years. Attracting approximately 6 million visitors annually, it is Japan's most sacred pilgrimage site.

The head shrine of the Sengen Shrine network, located in Fujisan, Yamanashi Prefecture. Dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of volcanoes, it has long served as the spiritual center for Mount Fuji worship. Pilgrims pray here for safe climbing, embodying Japan's ancient mountain worship tradition as an integral component of Fuji faith.

Collective term for three major Kumano shrines in Wakayama: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. Sacred pilgrimage destinations with over 1,000 years of history. Emperors, nobles, and common believers have visited to seek spiritual renewal. Designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2004 as endpoints of the Kumano Kodo. Over 1 million visitors annually.