Sarutahiko Shrine 猿田彦神社
Ise, Mie · Open in Google Maps
Sarutahiko Jinja, on the road to the Inner Shrine of Ise, is the main shrine to Sarutahiko, the god who guided Ninigi down from heaven.
What to look for
- In front of the main hall is an octagonal stone pillar marking directions, said to stand on the shrine's ancient site. Visitors touch it while thinking of their next move.
- In the grounds is a shrine to Ame-no-Uzume, the dancing goddess of the Rock Cave myth, popular with performers.
- It is a natural stop on the way between the two Ise shrines.
Enshrined kami
- Sarutahiko 猿田彦大神
What people pray for here
New beginnings, finding the right path, and safe travel.
Etiquette
Touch the direction stone gently; it is a sacred object, not a photo prop.
New to shrines? Read our short guide to shrine etiquette: purifying your hands, bowing and clapping, offerings, omamori and goshuin.