tourism 2023.12.03

Naminoue Shrine, one of the eight shrines of Ryukyu, nestled on a cliff

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Nacky247

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Born in Okinawa, Japan, she has worked as a local newspaper correspondent and freelance writer. Currently living in the Philippines from 2022, accompanying her husband on his work assignment. Although she is fluent in nothing but Japanese, she is a traveler who goes abroad once every two months. She has a skill to overcome language barriers by using body language. On her personal blog, she writes about the happenings of her travels and her daily life overseas, where she is repeatedly embarrassed.
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Shrine perched on a cliff

Naminoue Shrine stands on the cliffs of a raised coral reef.

When the vermilion main shrine reflects the bright Okinawa sun, it creates a mysterious atmosphere.

Conveniently located approximately 10 minutes by car from Naha Airport and 5 minutes from Kokusai Dori, Naminoue Shrine is one of the sacred places and places of worship in Okinawa, where the gods of the sea god “Niraikanai” have been worshiped since ancient times. That’s one. It is said that in 1522, Nisshu Shonin, a monk of the Shingon sect who drifted ashore to the Ryukyus, rebuilt the shrine and spread the Kumano faith. The deities enshrined here are the three Kumano deities: Izanami-no-Mikoto, Hayatama-no-Mikoto, and Kotosaka-no-Mikoto.

After passing through the large torii gate in front of the shrine, there is a long slope leading up to the main shrine.

Naminoue Shrine, a popular spot for locals to visit during the New Year, is very crowded on the third day of the New Year. Many people who visit the shrine on New Year’s Day climb this slope, step by step, making wishes for the new year.

Ryukyu Eight Shrines

In the Ryukyu Kingdom, eight shrines received special treatment from the royal government under the “Ryukyu Eight Shrines (Government Shrines) System,” including Okinogu Shrine, Shikina Shrine, Futenmangu Shrine, Sueyoshigu Shrine, Asato Hachimangu Shrine, Amekugu Shrine, Kingu Shrine, and Naminoue Shrine are among the eight shrines. Naminoue Shrine was revered as the most prestigious shrine in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It is a very special shrine among the shrines in Okinawa.

Goshuin stamps and original stamp book for visiting shrines

Many people collect goshuin stamps to commemorate their trip to shrines or the eight Ryukyu shrines.Actually, I am one of those people who travels to collect goshuin stamps with a goshuin book.
I feel the coolness of the characters and designs unique to the area and shrine.
Why not get a stamp from Naminouegu Shrine and record your trip?
We also sell original Goshuin books with a bingata design made using Okinawa’s traditional dyeing techniques, making them perfect as souvenirs or mementos of your trip.

What are the benefits of Namiuegu Shrine?

Since the goddess Izanami no Mikoto is enshrined here, it is most famous for its blessings for success in love, good marriage, and safe childbirth.
Izanagi is one of the oldest deities of married couples, and is also known as the god of marital harmony and matchmaking because he created many gods.
Goddess of love fulfillment.It’s a romantic shrine.
On the day I went, there were many couples visiting the shrine and taking photos with each other.

In addition, it is a sacred place where you can receive many blessings such as family safety, warding off evil spirits, prosperous business, praying for entrance exams, safety at sea, good luck and longevity, and so on, so you are sure to find the amulet that suits you.

Shisa protects the main shrine

Normally shrines have guardian dogs on both sides, but the main shrine of Naminoue Shrine is guarded by Shisa.
The one on the right with its mouth open is the male, and the one on the left with its mouth closed is the female.
It is said that a male with an open mouth ”brings in good fortune” and a female with a closed mouth ”keeps out various misfortunes”, and in Okinawa it is commonly placed as a talisman.
Also pay attention to the Shisa’s dignified and cute expressions.

Good luck beach behind Naminoue Palace

At the back of the cliff where Naminoue Shrine stands, there is Naminoue Beach, a stretch of white sand.It is the only beach in Naha City where you can swim, and in the summer, many tourists visit to enjoy swimming.
It is affectionately known locally as “Good Luck Beach.”

Free parking available

Naminoue Shrine has a free parking lot that can accommodate about 20 cars.
However, it can get crowded during New Year’s visits and Shinto rituals.
There is a coin parking lot nearby (for a fee), so please use it if there is no parking available.

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