By ando 
Kunikakasu-jingu (Kunikakasu-jingu) in Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, is a jinja with a very rare structure: two grand shrines stand side-by-side within a single precinct, adjacent to Hinokuma-jingu (Hinokuma-jingu). Collectively known as Nichizengu (Nichizengu), it has been revered since ancient times as the Ichinomiya (first shrine) of Kii Province. However, the true significance of this jinja lies in the profound depth of its history and the existence of a sacred object (goshintai) comparable to that of Ise Jingu.
Basic Information
Location: 365 Akizuki, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
Main kami enshrined: Kunikakasu-no-Okami (Kunikakasu-no-Okami)
Sacred Object (Goshintai): Hiboko-no-Kagami (Hiboko-no-Kagami)
Shrine Rank: Ichinomiya of Kii Province, Kanpei Taisha, Jingu
A Counterpart to Ise Jingu’s “Mirror”? The Mystery of Hiboko-no-Kagami
The most distinctive feature of Kunikakasu-jingu is the legend surrounding its sacred object, the Hiboko-no-Kagami (Hiboko-no-Kagami). In Japanese mythology, when Amaterasu Omikami (the Sun Goddess) hid in Amano-Iwato (the Heavenly Rock Cave), the yaoyorozu-no-kami (eight million gods) created a mirror to lure her out. It is said that the Hiboko-no-Kagami was the first mirror created at that time, followed by the Yata-no-Kagami (Yata-no-Kagami), which is the sacred object of Ise Jingu.
In other words, the mirror enshrined at Kunikakasu-jingu holds an extremely important position: it is considered a “separated mirror” or a “prototype (preliminary version)” of the Yata-no-Kagami, one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. For this reason, since ancient times, it has been specially regarded by the Imperial Court as a “jingu second only to Ise” and treated as an exceptional entity, surpassing the rank of “Shoichii” (Senior First Rank), which is the highest divine rank awarded to kami.
Behind the Scenes: Guardians of a “Forbidden Place” No One Has Ever Seen
The sacred object of Kunikakasu-jingu has never been publicly displayed for thousands of years. Furthermore, it is said that even the members of the Kii-shi (Kii clan), who serve as the chief priests (guji), are not permitted to see it. The Kii clan is one of Japan’s oldest lineages, tracing its origins back to the Age of Gods, and has guarded this mirror for generations.
The jinja also endured a difficult history during the Sengoku period (Warring States period) when its shrine land was confiscated during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s conquest of Kii Province, yet the sacred object alone was protected. The current expansive precinct, enveloped in tranquility, is imbued with a unique sense of solemnity and serenity, truly a “sanctuary that has been continuously preserved.”
Anime Pilgrimage Information: Tracing the Roots of “Summer Time Rendering”
The popular anime and manga “Summer Time Rendering” is set in Wakayama City. While Tomogashima is the model for “Hitogashima” (Hitogashima), the island where the story unfolds, this Nichizengu (Hinokuma-jingu and Kunikakasu-jingu) is cited as a model for the “Hito Jinja” appearing in the work, and as one of the image sources for the “ancient Kii faith” that underlies the narrative.
In particular, elements that evoke Wakayama’s unique historical background are scattered throughout, such as the protagonist Shinpei Ajiro’s surname “Ajiro” and the legends surrounding the heroine Ushio Kofune. For anime fans, a visit to this Ichinomiya of Kii Province is an indispensable highlight of a “pilgrimage to sacred sites” to uncover the essence of the work’s eerie and sacred atmosphere.
Points for Visiting
Upon entering the precincts, Hinokuma-jingu is located on the right, and Kunikakasu-jingu on the left. While it might be confusing which one to visit first, it is generally customary to begin your visit at Hinokuma-jingu. The sando (approach path) surrounded by trees offers a cool atmosphere even in summer, serving as a power spot that allows you to forget your daily worries just by taking a step inside.
Like Ise Jingu, Kunikakasu-jingu allows visitors to touch the core of Japanese mythology. When you visit Wakayama, be sure to experience its quiet dignity firsthand.
Related Links and References
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