Background

Gongendo Shrine: A Spiritual Heart in Ishigaki

Discover Gongendo Shrine in Ishigaki: A historic Shinto sanctuary blending cultural influences and offering a serene spiritual experience.

4.2

Gongendo Shrine, nestled in Ishigaki, Okinawa, is a Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back to 1614. Rebuilt in 1786 after a tsunami, it stands as a testament to the island's cultural heritage, showcasing a blend of Shinto, Buddhist, and Chinese influences.

A brief summary to Gongendo Shrine

  • 285 Ishigaki, Ishigaki, Ishigaki, Okinawa, 907-0023, JP
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Take time to explore the adjacent Torinji Buddhist Temple to appreciate the interconnectedness of Shinto and Buddhist traditions in the region.
  • Respect the serene atmosphere by maintaining silence and refraining from disruptive behavior within the shrine grounds.
  • Check for local festivals or events (matsuri) that may be taking place at the shrine to experience the community's vibrant connection to the divine.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Ishigaki City center, Gongendo Shrine is easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the main street and follow the signs for Torinji Temple, which is adjacent to the shrine. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Ishigaki Bus Terminal, take any bus heading towards the city center. Alight at the 730 Crossing (730 Kousaten) bus stop. From there, walk east for about 5 minutes following the signs for Torinji Temple. Bus fare is approximately ¥200. A 1-day pass costs ¥1000.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Ishigaki Airport to Gongendo Shrine costs approximately ¥3,000 and takes around 20-30 minutes. From the city center, a taxi ride is shorter and should cost around ¥500-¥1,000. Taxi fare starts at 500 yen.

Unlock the Best of Gongendo Shrine

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Gongendo Shrine

Gongendo Shrine, located in Ishigaki, Okinawa, is a significant Shinto shrine steeped in history and cultural fusion. Established in 1614, it holds the distinction of being among the island's oldest Shinto shrines. The shrine's history is intertwined with the region's tumultuous past, having been destroyed by a tsunami in 1771 and subsequently rebuilt in 1786. The shrine's architecture and ornamentation reflect a blend of Shinto, Buddhist, and Chinese influences, a common characteristic of Japanese shrines of that era. This syncretism highlights the cultural exchange and religious harmony that have shaped the region's identity. Gongendo Shrine is located adjacent to Torinji Buddhist temple. As a place of worship, Gongendo Shrine provides a serene and spiritual atmosphere for visitors. The shrine is dedicated to the worship of kami, the spirits or deities that inhabit natural phenomena, objects, and ancestors. Visitors can observe traditional Shinto rituals, such as purification, offerings, and prayers, and experience the deep connection between the community and the divine. The shrine's grounds offer a tranquil space for contemplation and reflection, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the rich cultural heritage of Ishigaki.

Popular Experiences near Gongendo Shrine

Popular Hotels near Gongendo Shrine

Select Currency