Jigozen Shrine

A profound sense of peace washes over you as we stand before the Jigozen Shrine. It’s not just the tranquil atmosphere. This shrine has a deep connection to the revered Itsukushima Shrine, a connection forged in a time when Miyajima Island was considered too sacred to tread upon. Jigozen Shrine in Hiroshima became the gateway for those seeking to pay their respects to the god “Ichikishima-no-Mikoto”. Imagine the faithful, hearts filled with reverence, standing on this very ground. They directed their prayers across the water, towards the sacred island of Miyajima. Jigozen Shrine wasn’t merely a substitute, it was a vital link in a spiritual journey. The shrine’s location, in alignment with Itsukushima and the majestic Mount Misen, was believed to create a sacred axis. This axis, stretching from Jigozen Shrine, across the water to Itsukushima, and culminating at Mount Misen’s peak, was thought to connect heaven and earth. Even today, Jigozen Shrine retains its connection to Itsukushima through the vibrant “Kangen-sai” festival. This ancient Shinto ritual, dating back to the Heian period, sees elaborately decorated boats, known as “gozasen”, sailing between Jigozen and Miyajima. As the boats traverse the water, the air fills with the ancient sounds of “kangen” – court music played on traditional instruments. This mesmerizing melody adds another layer to the sacred connection between Jigozen Shrine and Itsukushima, reminding us of the enduring power of belief and tradition.