Miho Shrine

Miho Shrine: Head Shrine of Ebisu, God of Prosperous Business

Miho Shrine is the head shrine of some 3,000 shrines across Japan dedicated to Ebisu, also known as Kotoshironushi.

It is also an ancient shrine listed in the shrine register of the "Izumo-no-Kuni Fudoki," compiled in the 8th century.

In Mihonoseki, which long flourished as a key hub of maritime transport, the shrine has been revered since ancient times as the god of fishing and shipping and the god of prosperous business.

Because it enshrines Kotoshironushi, son of Daikoku (Okuninushi) of Izumo Taisha, and his wife Mihotsuhime, there has long been a saying: "Visit both Ebisu and Daikoku," and "Visiting only Izumo Taisha is only half a pilgrimage."

Miho Shrine is also known as a god of music, and nearly 900 classical instruments (Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan) have been dedicated here. Many artists have also held dedication concerts at the shrine.

Important Cultural Property: Hiyoku Taisha-zukuri (Miho-zukuri) Style

The worship hall sits at the top of a gently rising grove, with the main hall behind it. The main hall consists of two Taisha-style buildings placed side by side, a style called Hiyoku Taisha-zukuri, or Miho-zukuri, and is designated an Important Cultural Property. Kotoshironushi is enshrined in the right hall and Mihotsuhime in the left.

God of Musical Instruments, God of Music

About 900 musical instruments have been dedicated to Miho Shrine, and they are designated Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan. Many artists have also dedicated musical performances here, and in recent years these have been opened to the public as concerts.

Morning and Evening Prayers

Every morning and evening (except on certain days), Miho Shrine holds services with norito prayers, gagaku court music, and miko shrine maiden dances.
The crisp morning and evening air and the accumulation of these daily rites over the ages may be part of what makes this such a power spot.