By ando 
Okayama Prefecture, Okayama City, Kita Ward, Ichinomiya is home to Kibitsuhiko Jinja. This renowned shrine serves as the ichinomiya (chief shrine) of Bizen Province and enshrines Ōkibitsuhiko-no-mikoto as its main kami. Ōkibitsuhiko-no-mikoto is widely known as the model for Momotaro, the hero of the famous Japanese folktale. Locally, the shrine is also affectionately called “Asahi no Miya” (Shrine of the Morning Sun), a nickname that hints at a surprising depth of mystery and history.
Basic Information
Location: 1043 Ichinomiya, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
Main Kami: Ōkibitsuhiko-no-mikoto
Primary Blessings: Protection from misfortune and disaster, longevity, fertility, and safe childbirth
The Mystery of “Asahi no Miya”: A Summer Solstice Miracle
The main reason Kibitsuhiko Jinja is called “Asahi no Miya” lies in the orientation of its main hall. The shrine is built facing east, with the sacred Mount Kibino-Nakayama towering behind it.
What is particularly remarkable occurs on the day of the summer solstice. On the morning of the summer solstice, the sun rises precisely through the center of the shrine’s main torii gate, and its light shines directly into the depths of the main hall. This alignment, often referred to as a “path of the sun,” suggests that this location has been a sacred site for sun worship since ancient times. Each year, many worshippers visit to witness this awe-inspiring sight.
Behind the Momotaro Legend: The Fierce Battle with Ura
When speaking of the legends passed down at Kibitsuhiko Jinja, the story of the “Subjugation of Ura” immediately comes to mind.
According to the legend, in ancient Kibi Province, a prince from Baekje (or an oni, a type of demon) named Ura arrived and tormented the local people. Ōkibitsuhiko-no-mikoto, dispatched by the imperial court, ultimately defeated Ura after a fierce battle.
However, there is another side to this story. Some theories suggest that Ura was in fact a benefactor who brought advanced iron-making technology to Kibi. He was then demonized as an “oni” to justify the Yamato court’s conquest of local powers, specifically the Kibi region. Standing on the shrine grounds, one cannot help but feel the profound depth of history, far beyond a simple tale of good triumphing over evil.
The Majestic Ando Lantern: Japan’s Largest Stone Lantern
One striking feature within the shrine grounds is the Ando Lantern (Ando Doro), one of Japan’s largest stone lanterns, standing 11.5 meters tall with a cap 4.5 meters wide.
Built during the Meiji era, this lantern is truly overwhelming in its sheer size. In fact, due to its immense scale, a vast quantity of stone was used to solidify its foundation, and its heavy, sturdy presence has come to symbolize something “impregnable” or “indestructible.”
Kameshima Jinja and the Mysterious Stone: Bringing Good Fortune?
Floating in the sacred pond “Sachi no Ike” (Pond of Fortune) on the shrine grounds is Kameshima Jinja, which holds a mysterious legend. Here, a stone shaped like a turtle is said to guard the pond’s water. Furthermore, rumors circulate that white snakes are occasionally sighted around this pond, making it known as a mystery spot where encountering one is believed to bring good luck.
Pilgrimage Information: A Setting for the Anime “Tenchi Muyo!”
The Kibiji area, including Kibitsuhiko Jinja, is famous among fans as a “sacred site” for the popular anime series “Tenchi Muyo!”
The shrine is considered one of the models for the protagonist Tenchi Masaki’s family shrine, “Masaki Jinja,” and scenes reminiscent of shrines and temples throughout Okayama Prefecture appear frequently in the series. In particular, the serene atmosphere of Kibitsuhiko Jinja and the ambiance of its sacred mountain, Kibino-Nakayama, are deeply linked to the anime’s world, and many fans still visit for “sacred site pilgrimages.”
Tips for Your Visit
When you visit Kibitsuhiko Jinja, be sure to also enjoy the differences with the adjacent Kibitsu Jinja (the ichinomiya of Bitchu Province). Kibitsuhiko Jinja, as the ichinomiya of Bizen Province, offers an elegant and tranquil atmosphere. Momotaro omamori (amulets) and charming peach-shaped ema (votive tablets) are popular, making it a recommended power spot not only for history enthusiasts but also for families and couples.
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