Isonokami Shrine
Discover one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its sacred, free-roaming chickens and its connection to the ancient Yamanobe no Michi trail.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms or gingko trees
Isonokami Shrine
Best Time
Cherry blossoms or gingko trees

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its sacred, free-roaming chickens and its connection to the ancient Yamanobe no Michi trail.
"A delightful and unique shrine experience, especially with the sacred chickens roaming freely!"
🐔 Respect the Sacred Birds
Roosters and chickens roam freely; please do not disturb or feed them. They are considered sacred messengers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many visitors combine their shrine visit with the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Good walking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sacred Chickens and Roosters
Witness the unique sight of sacred chickens and roosters freely roaming the shrine grounds. A truly special and ancient tradition.

Yamanobe no Michi Trailhead
Start or end your journey on Japan's oldest road, the Yamanobe no Michi, right here at the shrine.

Ancient Shrine Architecture
Explore one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, steeped in history and surrounded by serene nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sacred Roosters
Combine with Yamanobe Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐔 Respect the Sacred Birds
Roosters and chickens roam freely; please do not disturb or feed them. They are considered sacred messengers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many visitors combine their shrine visit with the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Good walking shoes are a must!
🌸 Seasonal Beauty
Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or fall for vibrant gingko trees lining nearby streets.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the unique charm of the free-roaming chickens and the ancient shrine architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐔 Respect the Sacred Birds
Roosters and chickens roam freely; please do not disturb or feed them. They are considered sacred messengers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many visitors combine their shrine visit with the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Good walking shoes are a must!
🌸 Seasonal Beauty
Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or fall for vibrant gingko trees lining nearby streets.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the unique charm of the free-roaming chickens and the ancient shrine architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Isonokami Shrine for its unique charm, particularly the sacred chickens roaming freely, and its historical significance as one of Japan's oldest shrines. Many appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and its role as a starting point for the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Some note that it's a smaller, less crowded attraction, offering a peaceful escape.
"Small beautiful shrine on outskirts of Nara. Visited during the 7-5-3 holiday and saw a lot of children after the ceremony in traditional dresses - very cute sighting.
Nearby there's a pond with Koi fish and"
Denys Tsybulskyi
"Great place to visit while acrossing the Yamanobe no michi. Said the sacred chickens here are the original residents before human. Correct me if I wrong."
Anemone
"Nice temple with a great atmosphere, there are many roosters and chickens roaming freely in the temple precints. The Yamanobe trail pass from this temple."
yodo saan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Isonokami Shrine is accessible by bus from Nara. Take a bus towards Tenri and get off at the Isonokami Jingu-mae stop. The shrine is a short walk from there.
Yes, Isonokami Shrine is a significant point along the Yamanobe no Michi, Japan's oldest road. It's a popular starting or ending point for hikers.
There is parking available at Isonokami Shrine, making it accessible for those traveling by car.
Many recommend starting at Isonokami Shrine and walking south along the trail. The path is well-marked and offers beautiful scenery.
No, Isonokami Shrine is located in Nara Prefecture, Japan, not Fukuoka. The TikTok video may have been mistaken or referring to a different location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Isonokami Shrine is free to enter. You can explore the grounds and admire the sacred chickens without any admission cost.
The shrine grounds are generally open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check specific hours closer to your visit, but it's typically accessible during daylight hours.
Yes, you can visit Isonokami Shrine on holidays. During special occasions like the 7-5-3 festival, you might see many children in traditional attire.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entrance fee for Isonokami Shrine. You can visit spontaneously.
While not always advertised widely online, the shrine may host local festivals or ceremonies. The 7-5-3 holiday is a notable time for family visits.
🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience
The chickens and roosters at Isonokami Shrine are considered sacred messengers. They roam freely and are a unique, ancient feature of the shrine.
Yes, the shrine is known for having coops with special breeds, including a long-tailed rooster variety.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as nice and great, with a serene, wooded area surrounding the shrine. It's a peaceful escape.
Yes, there is a pond near the shrine that is home to Koi fish, adding to the tranquil environment.
It is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, holding significant historical and cultural importance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique sight of the sacred chickens roaming freely, the ancient shrine architecture, and the natural beauty of the surrounding woods.
Yes, you can photograph the special breeds of chickens, including the long-tailed roosters, but always be respectful and avoid disturbing them.
In spring, the streets near Isonokami Shrine are lined with cherry trees, offering beautiful floral backdrops for your photos.
During the fall, nearby streets are adorned with gingko trees, providing stunning golden scenery perfect for photography.
Drone usage is generally restricted at religious sites in Japan to maintain peace and respect. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Chickens of Isonokami
When visiting, remember that these are not just ordinary birds; they are revered. Travelers are advised to observe them respectfully, refraining from feeding or disturbing them. This practice of keeping sacred fowl is believed to be one of the oldest traditions at the shrine, predating human settlement in some accounts. The presence of these animals contributes significantly to the tranquil and almost mystical atmosphere of Isonokami Shrine, making it a memorable stop for many.
Hiking the Yamanobe no Michi
The trail itself is generally well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, though some sections might be more challenging. It's an excellent opportunity to experience rural Japan at a slower pace, away from the bustling city centers. The surrounding scenery changes with the seasons, offering cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, making it a beautiful walk year-round. Combining a visit to the shrine with a hike on the Yamanobe no Michi provides a comprehensive cultural and natural experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit