A Visit to Mishima Taisha

A Pilgrimage to Mishima Taisha — A Land of History and Prayer Nurtured by Fuji’s Underground Waters

Mishima City in Shizuoka Prefecture is also my hometown. This time, I had the chance to return home after a long while and visited the memorable Mishima Grand Shrine. I’d like to share my visit to the shrine along with the town’s scenery.

Mishima Townscape and Dormy Inn Mishima Fugaku no Yu

Mishima was once a thriving post town welcoming travelers crossing the Hakone Mountains. National Route 1 passed in front of Mishima Grand Shrine and continued on to the Hirokoji shopping district.

Fifty years ago, as a child, that street seemed very wide and bustling to me, but now it gives the impression of a quiet tourist town.

This time, I stayed at Dormy Inn Mishima Fugaku no Yu.

Soak in the natural hot springs to soothe your travel fatigue, and at the breakfast buffet, you can pile as much of the famous sakura shrimp rice bowl as you like. The combination of fragrant sakura shrimp and grated yam was absolutely exquisite.

Walking along the Sakura River to Mishima Taisha

It’s about a 15-minute walk from the hotel to Mishima Taisha. We’ll take a leisurely stroll along the Sakura River.

The town of Mishima is dotted with underground springs fed by Mount Fuji’s waters, and the Sakura River is one such source. Its crystal-clear water reveals the riverbed in sharp detail, while willows and flowers sway along the banks, making it a perfect path for a stroll.

Along the way, you’ll pass Shirataki Park and other spots, allowing you to walk while appreciating the beauty of the Mishima Springs. This route, less frequented by tourists, is a recommended path for experiencing the quiet, unspoiled scenery of Mishima. Soon, you’ll arrive at the entrance to Mishima Grand Shrine.

Historic Shrine Buildings and Prestige

Passing through the large sacred rope at the entrance to the shrine grounds, a crisp, solemn air pervades the space.

Mishima Taisha is one of the shrines listed in the Engishiki, a code of laws from the Nara to Heian periods, and has long been ranked as a prestigious shrine designated as a Myojin Taisha.

In 1871, it was designated a Kanpei Taisha (Imperial Shrine) and granted special status as a shrine directly administered by the state.

When Minamoto no Yoritomo was exiled to Izu, he prayed at Mishima Taisha for the restoration of the Minamoto clan. After achieving success, he is said to have donated shrine lands and sacred treasures. Within the shrine grounds are historical sites associated with Yoritomo, such as the “Hataue Benzaiten.”

As you walk along the stone-paved approach, the magnificent main hall comes into view. On the day I visited, many worshippers were quietly joining their hands in prayer.

Its name is recorded in the Engishiki Jinmeicho (927), indicating it was already established by at least the Heian period.

Divine Deer Garden and the Messenger of the Gods

After finishing your visit, you’ll find the “Sacred Deer Park” on your way back through the shrine grounds. These deer are said to have been gifted from Kasuga Grand Shrine to Mishima and are carefully raised as divine messengers. As a child, I felt it was like a small zoo, but now I clearly understand that its existence is a sacred symbol.

A 1,200-year-old golden osmanthus tree

In one corner of the shrine grounds stands the “Mishima Taisha Golden Osmanthus,” designated as a National Natural Monument.

The tree is a remarkable 1,200 years old. It is said to bloom twice, from September to October, and there is even an anecdote that during its peak bloom (mid-September to early October), its sweet fragrance could be smelled as far as two ri (about 8 kilometers) away.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t in bloom when I visited, but even as an old tree, its branches spread out powerfully, and I couldn’t help but feel the force of life.

To the torii gate at the front of Mishima Taisha

Finally, we stepped out before the large torii gate at the front and concluded our visit. Once a bustling transportation hub, this place is now enveloped in a nostalgic tranquility.

However, the sacred atmosphere and weight of history within the precincts remain unchanged from ancient times, and it continues to be the center of culture and faith in Mishima City.

In closing

Mishima Grand Shrine is located about a 15-minute walk from JR Mishima Station, making it easily accessible even during a trip to Izu.

At the shrine, enveloped in pure water, deep history, and divine air, I was able to spend time that felt like a cleansing of the soul.

When you visit the Izu area, be sure to stop by this ancient shrine along with the spring waters of Mishima.