Mishima Taisha
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Mishima Taisha

4.3
·12k reviews·Mishima, Japan

A serene Shinto shrine with ancient camphor trees, a deer park, and beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful spiritual experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Mishima Taisha

Mishima Taisha

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Shinto shrine with ancient camphor trees, a deer park, and beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful spiritual experience.

4.3
(12k reviews)

"Beautiful and historic shrine! A peaceful and culturally rich destination perfect for reflection and photography."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Easy Access from Station

A pleasant walk from Mishima Station makes it convenient for day-trippers. :train2:

🦌 Feed the Sacred Deer

Buy deer crackers for 200 yen to feed the deer in the park. :deer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Camphor Trees

Ancient Camphor Trees

Shrine Grounds

Towering, centuries-old camphor trees create a majestic and calming atmosphere, offering a sense of timelessness.

Deer Park

Deer Park

Within the Shrine Precincts

Interact with gentle deer, considered messengers of deities, and purchase crackers to feed them for a unique experience.

Serene Gardens and Ponds

Serene Gardens and Ponds

Shrine Grounds

Wander through beautifully maintained gardens and admire ponds filled with vibrant carp, perfect for peaceful reflection.

Nighttime Illumination

Nighttime Illumination

Shrine Grounds

Experience the magical ambiance of the shrine illuminated at night, especially during festivals, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Mishima Taisha is a popular Shinto shrine, especially during festivals and cherry blossom season. To experience its serene atmosphere, consider visiting on weekdays outside of major holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more peaceful experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient camphor trees and tranquil grounds.

Embrace the Local Culture

Mishima Taisha is a significant spiritual center. Visitors are encouraged to observe local customs, such as offering a prayer with a bow and clap. While signage may be primarily in Japanese, the respectful atmosphere is universally understood. Consider learning a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interaction with the local culture.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
During festivals
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, unique sights
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇯🇵Step into serenity and history at Mishima Taisha Grand Shrine in Mishima, Japan! ⛩️✨ This breathtaking shrine, with its stunning traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere, offers a deep dive into Japanese culture and spirituality. 🙏 Mishima Taisha has been a significant spiritual site for centuries, deeply revered by historical figures like Minamoto no Yoritomo. Feel the powerful energy ...
@japanexplores_
90 likes • 933 views

🎯 Easy Access from Station

A pleasant walk from Mishima Station makes it convenient for day-trippers. :train2: Reddit

🦌 Feed the Sacred Deer

Buy deer crackers for 200 yen to feed the deer in the park. :deer: Instagram

Mishima Taisha Shrine has flourished as the most important shrine in Izu Province since ancient times, and is said to grant blessings for family prosperity, business success, and protection from evil. 水の都三島の中心にある神社。古くから伊豆の国一番の神社として栄え、家門繁栄や商売繁盛、厄除けのご利益があるとされる三嶋大社。 #japantravel #三嶋大社 #三島市  #静岡県 #静岡観光
@sodechuu
343 likes • 18K views
Mishima Taisha Lighting 🥰😃❤️💕🙏😊🍻🥂🥃🥂🍹🍷🍾
psinghsurya
0 likes • 24 views

🌸 Cherry Blossom Season

Visit during spring for stunning cherry blossoms and lively food stalls. :cherry_blossom: InstagramReddit

🙏 Respectful Prayer

Learn the bowing and clapping ritual for a more authentic prayer experience. :pray: Reddit

MISHIMA TAISHA SHIZUOKA JAPAN 三嶋大社 静岡 #japan #japantrip #japantravel #japanlover #mishimataisha #shizuoka #sakura #cherryblossom #cherryblossomsatnight #三嶋大社 #三嶋大社の桜 #夜桜 #桜ライトアップ #静岡 #さくら #桜 #🌸 #april #spring #日本 #日本旅行
ken.shooting_star
75 likes • 676 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Easy Access from Station

A pleasant walk from Mishima Station makes it convenient for day-trippers. :train2: Reddit

🦌 Feed the Sacred Deer

Buy deer crackers for 200 yen to feed the deer in the park. :deer: Instagram

🌸 Cherry Blossom Season

Visit during spring for stunning cherry blossoms and lively food stalls. :cherry_blossom: InstagramReddit

🙏 Respectful Prayer

Learn the bowing and clapping ritual for a more authentic prayer experience. :pray: Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

The shrine is beautiful day and night; consider visiting after dark for illuminated views. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Don't miss the omiyage shop for unique local crafts and tea sets. :gift: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mishima Taisha is widely praised as a beautiful, historic, and peaceful Shinto shrine, offering a deep sense of Japanese culture and spirituality. Visitors appreciate the serene gardens, ancient trees, and the unique experience of feeding the deer. The shrine's magical ambiance, especially when illuminated at night, is a significant draw, though some find signage challenging for non-Japanese speakers.

"Beautiful and historic shrine!
Mishima Taisha Shrine is a peaceful and culturally rich destination. The traditional architecture, serene gardens, and sacred atmosphere make it perfect for reflection and photography. Walking around the grounds, you can feel the deep history and spiritual significance of the place. Ideal for families, couples, or anyone interested in Japanese culture and Shinto traditions. A must-visit when in Mishima!"

j _cstnrs

"The Shrine at Mishima is beautiful and quintessential Japanese. It is free, so you can make a generous offering to the ancestors. If, like me (an uncultured British barbarian) you make an offering and bow deeply but forget to clap to wake the spirits, someone might be stood behind you to clap for you. Arigato gozaimashita to them.
The gardens are a wonderful delight, and there is a deer enclosure and pools filled with carp (that’s C-A-R-P).
A great place to put into practice all of the good manners you may have picked up on your travels."

Steve James

"This temple is truly charming and peaceful, filled with old traditions that make it special. It’s a popular spot loved by both locals and visitors. The atmosphere becomes even more magical at night, especially during the matsuri festival, when the lights and celebrations bring the temple to life. 🙏🏼🇯🇵🏯🎎

🌸 Wishes People Commonly Pray for at Mishima Taisha
1. Business Success & Wealth
• Prosperity in business (商売繁盛 Shōbai Hanjō).
• Good fortune in money and financial stability.
2. Good Luck & Success in Exams / Competitions
• Prayers for passing exams, achieving goals, or winning.
• Known as a “victory shrine” because Minamoto no Yoritomo prayed here before his success.
3. Family Safety, Love & Marriage
• Family well-being and household safety (家内安全 Kanai Anzen).
• Safe childbirth (安産 Anzan) and healthy children.
• Good relationships, romance, and marriage (良縁 Ryōen).
4. Health & Recovery from Illness
• Prayers for healing (病気平癒 Byōki Heiyu).
• Protection for long-lasting good health."

9 asias

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Beautiful ancient trees
Deer park interaction

What People Dislike

Non-foreigner friendly signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mishima Taisha is conveniently located a short and pleasant walk from Mishima Station. Many visitors find it an easy stroll, making it accessible for day trips. Reddit

While specific parking details can vary, Shinto shrines often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check local signage or inquire upon arrival for the most up-to-date information regarding parking facilities.

Yes, besides walking from Mishima Station, local buses may also serve the area around Mishima Taisha, providing alternative public transport options for visitors.

The main grounds of Mishima Taisha are generally accessible, with paved paths. However, some older structures or garden areas might have steps or uneven terrain. It's recommended to check accessibility details beforehand if this is a concern.

From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Mishima Station. The journey is efficient and offers scenic views. From Mishima Station, it's a short walk to the shrine. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mishima Taisha is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and appreciate its beauty without an admission fee. Generous offerings are welcomed. Reddit

The shrine grounds are typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours can vary, especially during special events or seasons, so it's best to check the official website or local listings for the most current information.

While the main shrine buildings may close, the grounds are often illuminated during certain times, especially during festivals, offering a magical nighttime experience. Instagram

Mishima Taisha hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the popular New Year's Day visit and summer festivals, which can draw large crowds but offer a vibrant cultural experience. InstagramReddit

As entry is generally free, advance booking is not required for regular visits. However, for special events or guided tours, it's advisable to check if reservations are necessary.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted within the grounds of Mishima Taisha, allowing visitors to capture its beauty. However, always be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially inside certain buildings or during religious ceremonies. Instagram

The ancient camphor trees, the serene gardens with carp ponds, the main shrine buildings, and the illuminated grounds at night are all highly photogenic. The deer park also offers unique photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, you can take photos of the deer in the park. If you plan to feed them, be prepared for them to approach you, which can lead to some dynamic shots. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites like Mishima Taisha to ensure the peace and sanctity of the location. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the tranquil atmosphere. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light. Nighttime illuminations offer a dramatically different, magical perspective. Instagram

🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the ancient camphor trees, the deer park, the serene gardens with carp ponds, and the main shrine buildings. The shrine is also known for its historical significance and spiritual atmosphere. Instagram+1

Yes, you can purchase deer crackers for 200 yen at a shop within the shrine to feed the deer. Instagram

Visitors commonly pray for business success, wealth, good luck in exams, family safety, love, marriage, and health. It's known as a 'victory shrine' due to historical prayers. Reddit

Yes, Mishima Taisha features a small museum that houses historical relics and artifacts related to the shrine's long history and cultural significance.

Dress respectfully, as it is a religious site. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds. Some visitors opt for traditional Japanese attire like kimonos for a more immersive experience. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During special events like festivals or cherry blossom season, food stalls are often set up, offering local snacks and treats. Reddit There are also restaurants and cafes located near Mishima Station.

Near Mishima Taisha, you might find local specialties. If you visit Ayano's family restaurant, you can try fresh soba and udon noodles made daily. Instagram

Picnicking is generally not encouraged within the main shrine areas to maintain their sanctity. However, there might be designated areas outside the immediate shrine complex where it's permissible.

While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat and fish-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura or vegetable soba. It's always best to inquire about ingredients when ordering.

Exploring the area around Mishima Station will provide the most dining options. You can also use online maps or review sites to find restaurants catering to various tastes and dietary needs.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mishima Taisha offers a wonderful experience for families. The deer park is a definite highlight, allowing children to safely interact with and feed the deer. Instagram The spacious grounds provide room for kids to explore, and the beautiful gardens offer a peaceful environment for a family stroll. The shrine's historical and cultural aspects can also be a gentle introduction to Japanese traditions for younger visitors. Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.

🚶 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, Mishima Taisha provides a perfect opportunity for quiet reflection and immersion in Japanese culture. The serene atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours, allows for personal contemplation amidst the ancient trees and tranquil gardens. Instagram It's a great place to practice mindfulness and appreciate the spiritual significance of Shintoism. The ease of access from Mishima Station also makes it a convenient and safe destination for exploring independently. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Mishima Taisha is a photographer's dream, offering diverse visual opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the ancient camphor trees, the delicate beauty of the gardens and carp ponds, and the architectural details of the shrine buildings. Instagram The deer park provides unique wildlife photography subjects. For dramatic shots, plan a visit during the nighttime illuminations or during cherry blossom season for vibrant colors. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of Mishima Taisha

Mishima Taisha is one of the most important Shinto shrines in the Izu region, holding the esteemed position of Ichinomiya (highest-ranking shrine) of the former Izu Province. It is dedicated to Ōyamatsumi-no-Mikoto, the deity of mountains and the sea, making it a significant site for prayers related to nature, prosperity, and safety. The shrine's history is deeply intertwined with Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate, who is said to have prayed here before his eventual success, earning Mishima Taisha a reputation as a 'victory shrine'. This historical connection draws many visitors seeking good fortune and success in their endeavors. InstagramReddit

Visitors often come to Mishima Taisha to pray for a variety of blessings, including business success and wealth, good luck in exams and competitions, family safety, love, and marriage, and health and recovery from illness. The shrine's spiritual energy is palpable, offering a sense of peace and hope to those who visit. The practice of making offerings and prayers, though sometimes requiring a bit of local guidance for non-Japanese speakers, is a central part of the experience. Reddit

The shrine's grounds themselves are considered sacred, with ancient camphor trees and a serene atmosphere contributing to its spiritual ambiance. The presence of deer, considered divine messengers in Shintoism, further enhances the mystical feel of the place. Instagram+1 Experiencing Mishima Taisha is not just about sightseeing; it's about connecting with centuries of Japanese spiritual tradition and seeking blessings for life's important aspects.

Experiencing Mishima Taisha's Beauty: From Day to Night

Mishima Taisha is renowned for its picturesque beauty, offering a tranquil escape with its manicured grounds and ancient trees. The centuries-old camphor trees are a dominant feature, their majestic presence creating a sense of awe and serenity. Walking amongst them feels like stepping back in time, offering a peaceful respite from the outside world. The serene gardens are meticulously maintained, featuring tranquil ponds filled with vibrant carp, providing perfect spots for quiet contemplation and photography. Instagram

The deer park within the shrine's precincts adds a unique charm, allowing visitors to interact with the gentle creatures considered messengers of the deities. Purchasing deer crackers to feed them is a popular and memorable activity for all ages. Instagram The shrine's architecture itself is a testament to traditional Japanese design, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Instagram

Beyond its daytime allure, Mishima Taisha transforms into a magical spectacle when illuminated at night, especially during festivals. The soft glow of lanterns and lights creates a breathtaking ambiance, offering a completely different yet equally captivating experience. Instagram This duality of beauty, from the quiet reverence of the day to the enchanting glow of the night, makes Mishima Taisha a destination that can be appreciated at any time.

Navigating Mishima Taisha: Practical Tips for Visitors

For a smooth visit to Mishima Taisha, understanding a few practicalities can enhance your experience. The shrine is easily accessible via a pleasant walk from Mishima Station, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Reddit While the shrine itself is free to enter, visitors are encouraged to make offerings to support its upkeep and show respect. Reddit Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as you'll likely spend time exploring the expansive grounds and gardens. Instagram

While most signage is in Japanese, the respectful atmosphere is universally understood. Visitors can learn the basic Shinto prayer ritual of bowing and clapping to participate more fully. Reddit For those interested in photography, the ancient trees, gardens, and nighttime illuminations offer stunning opportunities. Instagram+1 Remember to be mindful of any posted restrictions to ensure the sanctity of the site.

During peak seasons or festivals, the shrine can become quite crowded. To experience its tranquility, consider visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons. InstagramReddit The omiyage shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs, including tea sets. Reddit Interacting with the deer in the park by purchasing crackers is a delightful experience for many. Instagram

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