🗺️ Maiwa Shrine枚聞神社

According to legend, it was built in the age of the gods and is mentioned in the historical book "Nihon Sandai Jitsuroku," compiled during the Heian period. The "Engishiki Jinmyōchō" records it as "Satsuma no Kuni Eiwa-gun Maikoto Shrine," making it one of the Shikinai shrines in Satsuma, with a long history. The main deity enshrined is Ōhirume no Mikoto, along with the worship of five male and three female deities. Standing on the Satsuma Peninsula, Kaimondake serves as a landmark for navigation and is also the sacred body of Maikoto Shrine, revered as the guardian deity of navigation, capable of ensuring safe voyages and peaceful transportation. In addition to the main hall, which is designated as an important cultural property of the prefecture, the striking contrast between the vermilion shrine and the lush greenery surrounding it is worth admiring. An 800-year-old camphor tree is revered as a sacred tree, creating a divine atmosphere in the area. The treasure hall displaying the nationally important cultural property "Matsuume Maki-e Kushi" is also a must-visit. About 700 meters north of the shrine lies "Tama no I," claimed to be the oldest water well in Japan. It is said to be the meeting place of Yamasachihiko and Toyotamahime no Mikoto, thus becoming a well-known spot for forming connections.

Regarded as the Ichinomiya of Satsuma Province, this shrine holds a prestigious status. It is believed to bless safe navigation and peaceful travel. The vermilion shrine buildings are beautiful and captivating. The treasure hall displays the "Matsuba Maki-e Kushi-dune" (open for viewing during specific periods from December to January and April to May). Nearby is "Tama no I," the oldest well in Japan.