Visiting Ise Jingu offers many people an opportunity for spiritual purification and fulfillment. However, there is a special type of visit that stands apart from the usual experience: Mikakiuchi Sanpai. During the recent Golden Week, I had the privilege of participating in this special form of worship. In this blog post, I will share the allure and procedures of Mikakiuchi Sanpai.
For those who want to know more about the Ise Grand Shrine, click here.
What is Mikakiuchi Sanpai?
Mikakiuchi Sanpai is a unique form of worship that allows visitors to enter the most sacred area inside the main hall of Ise Jingu. While regular visitors pray from outside the sacred fence (mikaki), those participating in Mikakiuchi Sanpai are permitted to go inside the fence, getting closer to the deities for their prayers.
How to Apply and the Process of Mikakiuchi Sanpai
To participate in Mikakiuchi Sanpai, prior application is required. Here’s how to plan your visit:
- Application and Offering: Inform the shrine at the Kaguraden’s amulet office (shinpu juyojo) of your wish to make a donation (hatsuhoryo) for the construction fund. Record your name and make the offering, which should be a minimum of 2000 yen with no upper limit.
- Receiving the Special Sangu Badge: Proceed to the South Guard House (Minami Shukueya) on the left side of the main shrine and present the Special Sangu Badge received earlier. Record your name again. This badge allows entry for the applicant, their spouse, and their children.
- Guidance by the Priest: Follow the priest’s guidance to proceed inside the main hall. The priest will explain the procedures and etiquette, ensuring a smooth experience for first-time participants.
- Prayer: Quiet your mind and convey your gratitude and wishes to the deities as instructed by the priest.
Points to Note During Mikakiuchi Sanpai
Attire
According to Ise Jingu’s special worship guidelines:
“Formal attire is preferred for worshippers, but regular attire that does not lack respect is acceptable. Men should wear suits and ties, and women should wear equivalent formal attire.”
On the day of our visit, my husband wore a black formal suit, and I also wore a black suit. It’s important to adhere to the dress code strictly; inappropriate attire may result in being denied entry for Mikakiuchi Sanpai.
(My mother was once cautioned for wearing a dress made of kimono fabric. While I wore a formal kimono without issues, it seems that while formal kimonos are acceptable, stylish kimonos or western dresses made from kimono fabric are not.)
Behavior
Maintain a quiet demeanor and be considerate of other worshippers and the priests.
Photography
Photography is prohibited during Mikakiuchi Sanpai. Do not use cameras or smartphones during the worship.
The Appeal of Mikakiuchi Sanpai
Mikakiuchi Sanpai offers the unique experience of praying directly to the deities in the most sacred part of Ise Jingu. This special worship can provide a deeper spiritual connection and understanding of traditional Japanese rituals and etiquette, guided by the priests.
Conclusion
Mikakiuchi Sanpai is a unique form of worship that can only be experienced at Ise Jingu. It offers a profound opportunity for spiritual cleansing and expressing deep gratitude to the deities. Ensure thorough preparation for this sacred ritual and enjoy a spiritually enriching time through this extraordinary experience.
