By ando 
Nitta Jinja, located in Satsumasendai City, Kagoshima Prefecture, is a highly prestigious jinja that was once revered as the Ichinomiya (chief shrine) of Satsuma Province. It stands on top of Mt. Kameyama (Turtle Mountain), which is about 70 meters high, and enshrines Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the central figure of the Tenson Korin (descent of the heavenly grandchild) myth, as its main kami.
In this article, we will introduce the mysterious legends hidden within this historic Nitta Jinja, its little-known secrets, and an unexpected connection to anime.
Is the Mountain Itself a Giant Turtle? The Mystery of Mt. Kameyama
Mt. Kameyama, where Nitta Jinja stands, holds a surprising legend, true to its name. This mountain, when viewed from a distance, resembles a giant turtle, and it has been told since ancient times that a living turtle transformed into this mountain.
According to legend, there is a theory that Nitta Jinja originated when this turtle once tried to move, and a kami deity sat upon its back to stop its movement. When climbing the stone steps of the Sando (approach path), if you imagine yourself on the back of a giant turtle, you will surely be overwhelmed by its immense scale.
Eno-no-Misassagi: An Imperial Tomb Connected to the Roots of the Imperial Family
Further beyond the Haiden (hall of worship) and near the summit of the mountain, there is an Imperial Tomb called Eno-no-Misassagi. This is believed to be the burial mound of Ninigi-no-Mikoto and is counted as one of the “Three Imperial Tombs in Kyushu” managed by the Imperial Household Agency.
In fact, there has long been a debate about the exact location of Ninigi-no-Mikoto’s Imperial Tomb, with theories suggesting other places in Miyazaki or Kagoshima prefectures. However, in the Meiji era, Emperor Meiji’s decision officially designated this location at Nitta Jinja as the Imperial Tomb. Although it is within the shrine grounds, beyond that point, a serene atmosphere permeates as an “Imperial sacred precinct,” making it truly a mysterious power spot.
Make a Wish by Stroking? The Story Behind the Kodaki Komainu
In front of Nitta Jinja’s Haiden, you will find a nationally rare Kodaki Komainu (child-holding guardian dog). The komainu on the left, as you face it, holds an adorable baby komainu.
This komainu is believed to grant blessings for safe childbirth and fertility, and it is said that stroking the head of the baby komainu, in particular, will make your wishes come true. The fact that only the baby komainu’s head is smooth and shiny from being touched by so many visitors speaks to the depth of faith it inspires.
Furthermore, along the Sando, there is a mysterious stone called Suberi-ishi (Sliding Stone), and it was once believed that children who slid down this stone would develop strong legs and backs.
Anime Pilgrimage: The Setting for the Anime “Umi Monogatari ~Anata ga Ite Kureta Koto~”
Nitta Jinja is also known as a sacred site for the anime “Umi Monogatari ~Anata ga Ite Kureta Koto~,” which is based on a popular pachinko game.
The model for “Amamikojima,” the setting of the story, is the area around Satsumasendai City, and the anime very faithfully depicts Nitta Jinja’s long stone steps, torii gate, and the scenery of its grounds. Scenes where the heroines run up the shrine’s steps are an unmissable spot for fans. Although time has passed since the anime aired, fans continue to visit for “seichi junrei” (anime pilgrimage) even today.
Key Point for Visiting: Challenge the Over 300 Stone Steps
The biggest feature of Nitta Jinja is the long stone staircase, approximately 320 steps, leading from the entrance to the Honden (main sanctuary). After climbing each step of this staircase, which makes you feel the weight of history, a refreshing sense of accomplishment and a superb panoramic view of Satsumasendai City await you.
For those who are not confident in their physical strength, it is possible to drive near the summit. However, by climbing step by step on the legendary “turtle’s back,” you will likely feel the shrine’s power more strongly.
Basic Information
Location: 1935-2 Miyauchi-cho, Satsumasendai City, Kagoshima Prefecture.
Main Kami enshrined: Ninigi-no-Mikoto (Amatsuhikohikoho Ninigi no Mikoto).
Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Sendai Station, or take a bus and get off at “Nitta Jinja-mae” (in front of Nitta Jinja).
The myth of the Tenson Korin, the legend of the giant turtle, and an anime pilgrimage site. Nitta Jinja is a place full of mysterious charm, offering new discoveries with every visit. When you visit Kagoshima, be sure to step into this mystical forest.
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