Tsukiyomi-no-Miya is an auxiliary shrine of Ise Grand Shrine, affectionately known by locals as “Tsukiyomi-san.” It is dedicated to Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto, the moon deity and younger brother of Amaterasu-Omikami, the principal deity enshrined at the Inner Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine.
The shrine has a history dating back to before the Heian period (794–1185), making it a place deeply rooted in Japan’s ancient religious traditions. It stands in Nakamura-cho, near the middle reaches of the Isuzu River, approximately 3.8 km from the Outer Shrine, Toyouke Daijingu, and 1.8 km from the Inner Shrine, Kotaijingu.
The shrine precincts contain four closely aligned auxiliary shrines. Alongside Tsukiyomi-no-Miya itself is Tsukiyomi-no-Aramitama-no-Miya, which enshrines the dynamic or vigorous spirit of Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto.
The other two shrines are Izana gi-no-Miya, dedicated to Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Izanami-no-Miya, dedicated to Izanami-no-Mikoto. These deities are central figures in Japanese mythology and are traditionally regarded as the divine creators of the Japanese islands and many other kami.
The arrangement of four shrines standing side by side is exceptionally rare among the auxiliary shrines of Ise Grand Shrine. Apart from the two shrines at Takihara-no-Miya, no other auxiliary shrine complex has the same configuration.
Each shrine building is relatively modest in size, following the architectural style of the other auxiliary shrines of the Inner Shrine, with the exception of Aramatsuri-no-Miya. However, the sight of four traditional shinmei-zukuri structures arranged in a row creates a striking and harmonious scene.
Viewed from the front, the shrines stand from east to west in the following order: Tsukiyomi-no-Aramitama-no-Miya, Tsukiyomi-no-Miya, Izanagi-no-Miya, and Izanami-no-Miya.
The customary order of worship differs from their physical arrangement. Visitors should begin at Tsukiyomi-no-Miya, followed by Tsukiyomi-no-Aramitama-no-Miya, Izanagi-no-Miya, and finally Izanami-no-Miya.
Because Tsukiyomi-no-Miya enshrines the younger brother of Amaterasu-Omikami, the supreme deity of Ise Grand Shrine, it holds a particularly distinguished position. Among the auxiliary shrines associated with the Inner Shrine, it ranks immediately after Aramatsuri-no-Miya, which enshrines the spirit of Amaterasu-Omikami. It is also regarded as the highest-ranking auxiliary shrine located outside the main grounds of the Inner Shrine.
Another shrine within the precincts is Yoshiwara Shrine, a subsidiary shrine of the Inner Shrine. As at other auxiliary shrines outside the main precincts, shrine staff are stationed at the guardhouse. During visiting hours, visitors can receive sacred amulets and talismans and make arrangements for traditional offerings and ceremonial services.
With its ancient religious heritage, traditional wooden architecture, and four shrines standing in peaceful harmony, Tsukiyomi-no-Miya offers a quieter side of the Ise Grand Shrine experience. It is a meaningful stop for visitors interested in Japanese mythology, Shinto traditions, and the spiritual history of the Ise region.
January - April 5:00 - 18:00
May-August: 5:00-19:00
September: 5:00 - 18:00
October - December 5:00 - 17:00
Free of charge
10 min. walk from Ise-shi Station