In a remarkable act of preservation, Japan's most revered Shinto complex, the Ise Jingu shrine, is undergoing its 63rd scheduled reconstruction. This extraordinary event, known as the Shikinen Sengu ceremony, occurs precisely every two decades in a tradition stretching back an astonishing 1,300 years.
The process is far more than a simple renovation. It involves constructing exact replicas of the main shrines, the Naiku (Inner Shrine) and the Geku (Outer Shrine), on adjacent plots of land. The sacred spirits, or kami, are then transferred to their new abodes in a deeply spiritual night-time ceremony.
A Testament to Timeless Craftsmanship
The rebuilding is not merely symbolic; it serves the vital purpose of passing down ancient Japanese architectural skills from one generation of master craftsmen to the next. The shrines are built using a pre-Buddhist Japanese style called Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri, which uses interlocking wooden joints instead of nails.
This meticulous process ensures that the knowledge of working with sacred cypress wood (hinoki) and the unique construction methods are never lost to history.
The Spiritual Heart of Japan
Ise Jingu is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess and mythical ancestor of Japan's Imperial family. Its profound significance makes it a pilgrimage site for millions of visitors annually. The current rebuilding phase, which began in 2013, is scheduled for completion with the main ceremonies in 2033.
This cycle of death and rebirth reflects core Shinto beliefs in purity, impermanence, and the renewal of nature, offering a powerful glimpse into Japan's living spiritual heritage.
