宇佐神宮定番コース（English）

model course(English)(JPEG:212.5KB)

The Torii (Gate) at Usa Jingu Shrine are unique because they feature raised roofs, there is no Gakuzuka(frame) , and there are black architraves at the top of the pillars.  All of the Torii on the temple grounds were made in this style. 

This water basin weighing 24 tons was made from the largest granite block in Japan.On the side there is a sign with the proper etiquette for washing your hands. 

This gate was built in the style of Momoyama culture and many sculptures were carved which is rare at Usa Jingu Shrine. T his structure along with the main shrine and Kurehashi all represent Usa Jingu Shrine.

The main shrine is surrounded by the Nanchuroumon.  On your left, headed towards the main shrine, stand three shrines in a row, Ichino Goten, Nino Goten, and Sanno Goten, which is where the Hachiman Okami(God), Hime Okami(God), and the Jingu Kogo(mother God of Hachiman Okami), are enshrined respectively.At Usa Jingu Shrine there is an old customary tradition for worshiping.  Clap two times more than you would at other shrines.  Bow twice, clap four times and then bow again.

The 3 buildings Ichino Goten, Nino Goten, and Sanno Goten are built in an old-style called Hachiman-zukuri.  When the three shrines are viewed from the side the roofs appear the look like the letter M. (Hachiman-zukuri is a traditional Japanese architectural style used at Hachiman shrines in which two parallel structures with gabled roofs are interconnected on the non-gabled side, forming one building which, when seen from the side, gives the impression of two.)The current main shrine was constructed between 1855 and 1861 and was designated as a national treasure in 1952.The main shrine is not usually open to the public, however there are opportunities to visit throughout the year.

In the olden days, it was called the Mikemiya, and it was where food was prepared to be presented to the gods.Same as Jogu, the three pillars, the Hachiman Okami(God), Hime Okami(God), and the Jingu Kogo(mother God of Hachiman Okami), are enshrined here as the gods that protect the development and enrichment of agriculture and fishing.In this area, it is familiarly known as "Gegu Mai-ranya Katamairi". Which means if you do not visit Gegu you have only seen to half of Usa Jingu Shrine.

This bridge has the extravagant roof like a Shinto main shrine, and was built before the Kamakura period (12-14th century).  Once every 10 years, an envoy for the Emperor is dispatched and during the festival which is held by imperial order, the doors are opened.  The next imperial envoy will be dispatched in 2025. At that time the door on the bridge will be open to the public. 

At the front of Awashimasha shrine, there are 2 big and small Jizo, and it is said that your wish will come true only once in your life time.It is said that if anyone sees you pray your wish will not come true.  So be sure to pray by yourself.