Iwakura Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Kochi Prefecture that represents the ancient Japanese tradition of iwakura worship, where natural rock formations are revered as dwelling places of kami. These sacred rock seats or altars were among the earliest forms of Shinto worship before the construction of formal shrine buildings.
- Denomination
- Iwakura
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kami dwelling in sacred rocks
- Kami enshrined
- Nature kami of the sacred rocks
- Founding
- Ancient period
- Coordinates
- 33.293782, 132.5902088
Visitor tip
Look for the natural rock formations that serve as the focal point of worship rather than traditional shrine buildings.
Cultural notes
Iwakura literally means 'rock seat' and represents the primitive form of Shinto worship where kami were believed to descend and reside in natural rock formations. This form of nature worship is considered foundational to Shinto beliefs.
Historical note
The shrine represents one of Japan's most ancient forms of worship, predating the introduction of Buddhism and formal shrine architecture. Iwakura worship reflects the animistic beliefs of early Shinto, where natural formations were believed to be inhabited by divine spirits.