Ise Jingu Shrine (Geku)

Renowned to be considered the spiritual home of the Japanese and the national religion of Shinto, Ise Jingu is revered as the soul of Japan by being its most sacred jinja (shinto-shrines). These jinja are comprised of a complex of 125 jinja and dates back to the 3rd century. Over eight million travelers from around the world gather here to take in its magnificence. A unique fact about the Geku is that it, along with Naiku, is rebuilt again every 20 years. This is rooted in the Shinto belief revolving around the cycle of life. A special ritual is done where there is a transfer of the kami (shinto-deity) to the new location. The wood from the old palaces is recycled to build other surrounding areas and sent to jinja all around Japan to be used for other building needs. It’s a great way to connect all of Japan spiritually. Veiled by a spiritual place nested in a beautiful region of Japan, Ise Jingu is truly a spiritual place and deserving of its acclaim.