Standing at the eastern tip of the Shimane Peninsula in the port town of Mihonoseki, Miho Shrine serves as the head shrine of approximately 3,000 Ebisu shrines throughout Japan. The principal deity, Kotoshironushi-no-Kami, is the son of Okuninushi (the deity of Izumo Taisha) and has been worshipped since ancient times as “Ebisu-sama”—the god of business prosperity and fishing abundance.
While the exact founding date remains unknown, the shrine appears in the “Izumo no Kuni Fudoki” compiled during the Nara period (733 CE), confirming a history of at least 1,300 years. A tradition called “Ryomairi” (dual pilgrimage) holds that visiting both Izumo Taisha and Miho Shrine doubles the blessings received, leading many pilgrims to journey to both sacred sites.
Upon entering the grounds, visitors are immediately struck by the distinctive shrine architecture known as “Miho-zukuri.” Based on the Taisha-zukuri style, this rare configuration features two main halls standing side by side, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Before you stretches the tranquil Miho Bay, while behind rises Mount Aoshimagaki, creating a landscape of divine beauty. Every morning at 8:30 AM, the “Asa-mike-sai” (Morning Food Offering Ceremony) is performed, offering visitors a precious opportunity to witness ancient Shinto rituals and shrine maiden dances free of charge—a genuine encounter with the world of Japanese mythology.
While Miho Shrine’s exact founding date is unknown, it was recorded as “Miho-sha” in the Izumo no Kuni Fudoki compiled in 733 CE, confirming a history spanning at least 1,300 years.
The principal deity Kotoshironushi-no-Kami is the son of Okuninushi (the deity of Izumo Taisha) and played a crucial role in the mythology of “Kuniyuzuri” (the transfer of the land). According to legend, Kotoshironushi was fishing at Mihonoseki when approached by messengers from Amaterasu regarding the transfer of the land, whereupon he hid himself beneath the sea. From this mythological episode, Kotoshironushi became identified with “Ebisu-sama,” worshipped as a god of good fortune who brings the bounty of the sea.
The other principal deity, Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto, is a daughter of Takamimusubi-no-Kami of Takamagahara (the High Plain of Heaven) and consort of Okuninushi. She is revered as a goddess of agriculture who governs rice cultivation, as well as a deity of marital harmony.
From the medieval period onward, the shrine flourished alongside Mihonoseki’s prosperity as a crucial maritime hub, receiving devoted worship from kitamaebune ship owners and merchants. During the Edo period, it enjoyed the patronage of the Matsudaira clan, lords of Matsue Domain. The current shrine buildings were reconstructed in 1813.
Architecture and Natural Features
Miho Shrine’s buildings feature a unique architectural style called “Miho-zukuri,” designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Based on the “Taisha-zukuri” style represented by Izumo Taisha, the distinctive structure consists of two main halls standing side by side—the right hall enshrining Kotoshironushi-no-Kami and the left enshrining Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto—connected by the “Shozoku-no-ma” (Robing Room).
The cypress bark roofs with chigi (crossed finials) and katsuogi (horizontal roof logs) are beautiful, and the walls feature polychrome carvings. The dragon and phoenix carvings on the front of the main halls are particularly noteworthy. The worship hall, rebuilt in 1928, welcomes visitors with its impressive irimoya-zukuri (hip-and-gable) construction.
Behind the shrine rises Mount Aoshimagaki, revered as sacred ground that served as a stage for mythology. From the shrine grounds, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Miho Bay, and on clear days can see as far as the Oki Islands. Descending the stone steps of the approach path brings you immediately to the active fishing port, where working boats come and go in a lively scene.
What Makes This Spot Special
Miho Shrine’s greatest attraction is the “Asa-mike-sai” (Morning Food Offering Ceremony) performed daily. Every morning at 8:30 AM for approximately 20 minutes, priests perform ancient rituals while shrine maidens offer sacred dances. General visitors can observe free of charge, providing a precious opportunity to experience traditions maintained for over 1,300 years.
The “Ryomairi” (dual pilgrimage) combining visits to both Izumo Taisha and Miho Shrine is known as Shimane’s premier power spot circuit. By praying to both Okuninushi (the father deity) and Kotoshironushi (the son deity), blessings are said to be doubled—particularly popular among those seeking business prosperity and success.
Within the grounds, the “Okage-no-Ido” (Well of Blessings) has quietly gained popularity as a power spot where wishes come true. Additionally, Miho Shrine is known as a shrine of “musical instruments,” with a strong tradition of instrument dedications. The “Shuzoko” (Storage Building) within the grounds houses approximately 850 dedicated instruments, viewable by appointment.
Spiritual Benefits and Effects
Known Spiritual Benefits
As the shrine enshrining Kotoshironushi-no-Kami (Ebisu-sama), Miho Shrine is known for diverse blessings.
Business Prosperity and Success: As one of the Seven Lucky Gods, Ebisu-sama is most famous as the deity of business prosperity. Merchants and business owners from across Japan make frequent pilgrimages here.
Abundant Catches and Maritime Safety: Following the mythology of the deity fishing at Mihonoseki, the shrine receives deep devotion from fishing industry professionals, who continuously visit for prayers for large catches and maritime safety.
Bountiful Harvest: As Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto governs rice cultivation, blessings for agricultural prosperity are also available.
Marital Harmony and Matchmaking: As Okuninushi and Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto are divine spouses, blessings for harmonious marriage and successful romantic connections can be received.
Progress in Music and Performing Arts: Given the tradition of instrument dedications, many visitors come seeking improvement in music and artistic pursuits.
The Unique Energy of This Site
Miho Shrine is said to be filled with energies of “beginnings” and “prosperity.” Visiting when starting new businesses, changing careers, or becoming independent is believed to attract favorable circumstances.
Particularly, completing the “Ryomairi” dual pilgrimage with Izumo Taisha is said to bestow both “the power to create connections (Izumo Taisha)” and “the power to make business prosper (Miho Shrine),” drawing many visitors at turning points in their businesses and lives.
Visitor Testimonials
“I did the Ryomairi before opening my own business. I prayed for good connections at Izumo Taisha and business prosperity at Miho Shrine. Thanks to these blessings, I’m now in my fifth year of operation and continuing to grow steadily.” (Man in his 40s, Hiroshima)
“I participated in the morning Asa-mike-sai. Watching the shrine maiden’s dance in the quiet shrine, I felt my heart being cleansed. I was able to spend sacred time away from daily life.” (Woman in her 30s, Osaka)
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March–May)
The cherry blossom season in April beautifully colors the grounds. Comfortable temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F) make this pleasant for visiting, and as the beginning of tourist season, it’s relatively uncrowded. The “Aoshimagaki Shinji” on April 7th is the shrine’s largest festival, featuring ceremonies reenacting the Kuniyuzuri mythology. Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Summer (June–August)
Summer brings pleasant sea breezes and stunning views of Miho Bay. The “Miho Shrine Summer Festival” in August draws local crowds. Temperatures reach 28-32°C (82-90°F), but the seaside location keeps it relatively cool. Morning worship during the cool Asa-mike-sai time is recommended. Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Autumn (September–November)
October to November offers the most pleasant temperatures of 15-22°C (59-72°F). While autumn colors are limited, the clear air enhances the beauty of Miho Bay and Mount Aoshimagaki views. The “Morotabune Shinji” on December 3rd is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and is worth witnessing. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Winter (December–February)
Overcast skies typical of the Sea of Japan coast are common, but the rough winter sea combined with the shrine’s solemn atmosphere creates a unique appeal. Temperatures of 5-10°C (41-50°F) require warm clothing. Fewer visitors make this ideal for peaceful worship. January 1st-3rd brings approximately 30,000 New Year’s visitors. Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Best Times of Day
Early Morning (8:00-8:30 AM): Timing your visit with the Asa-mike-sai is highly recommended. Arrive before the 8:30 AM ceremony start to worship in a solemn atmosphere.
Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): After the Asa-mike-sai, enjoy leisurely exploration of the grounds in the refreshing air. The amulet office is open for charms and goshuin.
Late Afternoon (4:00-5:00 PM): The shrine buildings lit by western light and the evening views of Miho Bay are beautiful. Excellent for photography.
Visitor’s Guide
Basic Worship Etiquette
1. Torii Gate: Bow before passing through. Walk along the sides of the approach.
2. Temizuya (Purification Fountain):
– Hold the ladle in your right hand and rinse your left hand
– Transfer to your left hand and rinse your right hand
– Return to your right hand, pour water into your cupped left palm, and rinse your mouth
– Tilt the ladle vertically to rinse the handle
3. Worship at the Main Hall:
– Quietly offer your monetary offering
– Ring the bell
– Bow twice, clap twice, bow once (nihai-nihakushu-ichihai)
– Note: Miho Shrine also has a traditional variation of “two bows, four claps, one bow”
Highlights and Recommended Route
Suggested Route (Approximately 60 minutes)
1. Stone Step Approach (5 min): Climb the steps with your back to the sea
2. Torii Gate & Temizuya (3 min): Purify body and mind
3. Worship Hall (10 min): Pay respects to the principal deities
4. Main Halls (Important Cultural Property) (5 min): Admire the unique Miho-zukuri architecture
5. Okage-no-Ido Well (5 min): Make a wish
6. Auxiliary Shrines (10 min): Kyakujin-sha, Inari-sha, etc.
7. Amulet Office (10 min): Receive goshuin and charms
8. Asa-mike-sai Viewing (20 min): Begins at 8:30 AM (if visiting at that time)
Goshuin and Amulet Information
Goshuin (Shrine Seal):
Fee: ¥500
Hours: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
Receiving goshuin from both Miho Shrine and Izumo Taisha for “Ryomairi” is popular
Popular Amulets:
Business Prosperity Charm (¥800): Receive Ebisu-sama’s blessings
Tai (Sea Bream) Charm (¥800): Auspicious item featuring the fish held by Ebisu-sama
Music Charm (¥500): Unique to this shrine of instruments
Couple’s Charm (¥1,000): Pair of charms for marital harmony
Dress Code and Items to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes (stone steps on the approach)
Hat, parasol, and water essential in summer
Warm clothing in winter (sea wind is cold)
Camera (for capturing the scenic Miho Bay views)
Basic Information
Access
Address: 608 Mihonoseki, Mihonoseki-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture
By Car:
40 minutes from San’in Expressway Yonago IC
30 minutes from central Matsue
50 minutes from Izumo Taisha
Public Transportation:
From JR Matsue Station: Ichibata Bus toward “Mihonoseki Terminal” (approximately 40 minutes), then transfer to “Mihonoseki Community Bus” (approximately 10 minutes), get off at “Miho Jinja Iriguchi”
From JR Sakaiminato Station: Mihonoseki Community Bus (approximately 20 minutes)
Parking: Free parking available (approximately 30 spaces)
Visiting Information
Hours: Grounds open freely (Amulet office: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM)
Closed: None
Admission: Free
Suggested Duration: 40-60 minutes (80 minutes including Asa-mike-sai viewing)
Contact
Phone: 0852-73-0506
Official Website: https://mihojinja.or.jp/
Area Information
Nearby Attractions
Mihonoseki Lighthouse (5 min by car)
The oldest stone lighthouse in the San’in region, selected as one of the World’s 100 Historic Lighthouses. The adjacent buffet offers panoramic views extending to the Oki Islands.
Sakaiminato Mizuki Shigeru Road (20 min by car)
Hometown of Mizuki Shigeru, creator of “GeGeGe no Kitaro.” The approximately 800-meter shopping street features 177 bronze yokai (supernatural creature) statues.
Izumo Taisha (50 min by car)
Partner shrine for Ryomairi. Known as the head shrine for matchmaking, visiting both shrines is said to double blessings.
Recommended Restaurants
Fresh Seafood Direct from Mihonoseki Port (within 5-min walk)
Fukumakan
Restaurant of a traditional inn established over 100 years ago
Specialties: Premium Seafood Bowl (¥2,200), Nodoguro Salt-Grilled Set (¥3,300)
Hours: 11:30 AM-2:00 PM
Closed: Irregular
Nakaura
Dining hall run by local fishermen
Specialties: Squid Bowl (¥1,200), Daily Sashimi Set (¥1,500)
Hours: 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Closed: Wednesdays
Aoishibataki Street Teahouse
Rest stop in Mihonoseki’s historic district
Specialties: Matcha Set (¥600), Zenzai sweet red bean soup (¥500)
Hours: 10:00 AM-4:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Tairyo Ichiba Nakaura (15 min by car)
Fresh seafood sales and dining in Sakaiminato
Specialties: Crab Soup Set (¥1,800), Seafood BBQ
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Souvenirs
Ebisu-sama Tai Senbei: Miho Shrine’s signature auspicious crackers
Nodoguro Dried Fish: Premium dried fish from the Sea of Japan
Business Prosperity Charm: Miho Shrine original
Model Itineraries
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
8:00 AM Arrive at Miho Shrine
8:30 AM View Asa-mike-sai ceremony
9:00 AM Grounds worship & receive goshuin
10:00 AM Mihonoseki Lighthouse
11:00 AM Seafood lunch at Fukumakan
12:00 PM Stroll Aoishibataki Street
12:30 PM Depart
Full-Day Ryomairi Course (Approximately 8 hours)
8:00 AM Arrive at Miho Shrine
8:30 AM View Asa-mike-sai ceremony
9:30 AM Grounds worship
10:30 AM Mihonoseki Lighthouse
11:30 AM Explore Sakaiminato Mizuki Shigeru Road
12:30 PM Lunch at Tairyo Ichiba
2:00 PM Travel to Izumo Taisha
3:00 PM Worship at Izumo Taisha
5:00 PM Depart
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
“Moved by the Asa-mike-sai” (Woman in her 50s, Tokyo)
“I woke early to attend the Asa-mike-sai. The shrine maiden’s dance and court music echoing through the silence felt like being transported back to the age of mythology. This is a ceremony every Japanese person should experience at least once.”
“Business Improved After Ryomairi” (Man in his 40s, Business owner)
“I completed the Ryomairi to Izumo Taisha and Miho Shrine before starting a new business. After praying for both good connections and business prosperity, I was blessed with excellent business partners, and my business has grown steadily.”
“Spectacular Views of Sea and Shrine” (Couple in their 30s, Osaka)
“The scenery of the shrine against the backdrop of Miho Bay was wonderful. Looking back while climbing the stone steps, the blue sea stretched out before us—truly moving. The fishing port atmosphere was great, and the fresh seafood was outstanding.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Asa-mike-sai held every day?
A: Yes, it is performed every morning at 8:30 AM for approximately 20 minutes. Visitors can observe free of charge. However, as it is a sacred ceremony, please refrain from entering or exiting midway.
Q: For the Ryomairi with Izumo Taisha, which should I visit first?
A: There’s no specific rule, but a popular route is to visit Miho Shrine first to catch the Asa-mike-sai, then head to Izumo Taisha afterward.
Q: Does the parking lot get crowded?
A: Weekdays are mostly empty. During New Year’s and festival days, it can be crowded, so public transportation is recommended.
Q: Can I view the instruments in the storage building?
A: Yes, by calling the shrine office in advance to make a reservation. You can see approximately 850 dedicated instruments.
Summary
Miho Shrine is Shimane Prefecture’s representative power spot, boasting over 1,300 years of history as the head shrine of approximately 3,000 Ebisu shrines nationwide.
Beyond receiving diverse blessings including business prosperity, abundant catches, and marital harmony, the greatest attraction is experiencing the world of mythology through the daily “Asa-mike-sai” ceremony. The “Ryomairi” dual pilgrimage with Izumo Taisha, offering both matchmaking and business prosperity blessings, draws an endless stream of visitors at turning points in their businesses and lives.
The shrine buildings in the distinctive “Miho-zukuri” style designated as an Important Cultural Property, the spectacular views of Miho Bay spread before you, and the charming atmosphere of the active fishing port—this sacred space where everything harmonizes gently calms visitors’ hearts and gives courage to take new steps forward.
With surrounding attractions including Sakaiminato’s Mizuki Shigeru Road and Mihonoseki Lighthouse, taking a full day to explore leisurely is recommended. May Ebisu-sama’s blessings bring an abundant catch of good fortune to your life.
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*Information in this article is current as of December 2025. Please verify the latest details via the official website before visiting.*
