Category: Gods & Deities

Kanayamahiko-no-Mikoto is a deity in Japanese mythology who governs mines, metals, and forges. We unravel the mystery of this god who supported metallic civilization—exploring the unusual birth story from Izanami's vomit, the path to becoming the head shrine at Nangu Taisha in Mino Province, the thousand-year faith that supported swordsmiths and Japanese sword culture, and the prayers that still live today in the steel and metalworking industries as the 'progenitor god of metals.'

Shrine Secrets Editorial Team

Said to have lived over two hundred—or even three hundred—years, the legendary minister Takenouchi no Sukune served five generations of emperors from Keiko to Nintoku and supported Empress Jingu's expedition to the Three Korean Kingdoms. Why was Japan's greatest ancient minister deified as 'the deathless elder'? We unravel the secrets of Kehi Jingu and Ube Jinja that enshrine him, his prewar appearance on Japanese banknotes, and the living legacy of Takenouchi no Sukune as a symbol of longevity and loyalty.

Shrine Secrets Editorial Team

Recorded in the ancient chronicles as the mother of Emperor Jimmu, Tamayori-hime carries in her very name — "she to whom spirits cling" — the echoes of ancient shamanic faith. Explore this enigmatic goddess worshipped across Japan.

Shrine Secrets Editorial Team