九州各地域の隠れた資源を磨き上げ、国内外へ発信

Set on the gently sloping Mt. Hikodake of 355 meters in Kumamoto’s Yamaga city, Hikotake Shrine is a site consisting of three shrines: Jogu, Chugu, and Gegu. Each of the shrines hosts many of the gods that appear in Japanese mythology. For example, Jogu is dedicated to the brother-and-sister gods Izanagi and Izanami; Chugu is dedicated to the moon god Tsukuyomi and Hikohodemi, grandparent of the first emperor; Gegu is dedicated to the celestial sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami and the deity of rice Ukanomitama, among others. Visitors typically pray at Gegu first, then walk through the mountain trail for about 20 minutes to Chugu, and finally to Jogu, which is approximately a 20-minute walk from Chugu. The trees surrounding the trail make the hike a cool and refreshing one even during the summer, and visitors can enjoy the mountain’s nature while heading to the shrines. The magnificent view from Jogu overlooks the city of Yamaga, and on a clear day, all the way to the Ariake Sea. Cars are recommended for those who are not up for the long walk; there is a driving route that takes visitors to all three shrines. Goshuin, or seal stamps with specific designs for each shrine or temple, is given to worshippers at the shrine office near Gegu.