Kibitsu Jinja (Kibitsu Shrine)
きびつじんじゃ
The model for the Momotaro legend. This site is the first shrine of the Bitchu Province, featuring a beautiful main hall (honden) built in the National Treasure-designated Hiyoku-irimoya style.
Overview
The enshrined deity (kami) is Ohkibitsuhiko-no-mikoto. As the prince of the 7th Emperor Kōrei, the legend of him defeating the prince of Baekje, Ura, is widely known as the model for the folktale "Momotaro." The main hall (honden) and worship hall (haiden) were reconstructed in 1425 CE and are designated as National Treasures, being the only examples in Japan of the "Hiyoku-irimoya" (Kibitsu-zukuri) architectural style. The site features a corridor approximately 360 meters long and is famous for the "Narigama Shinji" (a ritual where the sound of a kettle is used to divine good or bad fortune).
Enshrined deity / legend
Ohkibitsuhiko-no-mikoto
Highlights
- ・National Treasure main hall (honden) in Hiyoku-irimoya style (Kibitsu-zukuri)
- ・Corridor of approximately 360 meters
- ・Narigama Shinji (divination by the sound of a kettle)
- ・The origin of the Momotaro legend
Details may change. Please check official sources before visiting.