Akama Jingu — Attraction in Shimonoseki

This shrine is popular with an ancient Earless Houichi tale, which is based on a little Emperor called Antoku's tragic death in the famous naval battle on the local water called dan-no-ura in 1185. The 6year old emperor was a figure head and supported by the losing side, the Heike. This unfortunate kid was on the run with the entourage. The Minamoto, the winning side caught up, won the battle so the courtiers picked up the little kid emperor before jumping into the sea with the boy. The shrine honors the Taira cran, the lost side. "The earless Houichi" a legendary monk was an excellent Lute (Biwa) player. So good that the Taira ghosts turned up and guided this blind trainee monk to their graves in Akama jingu for the own little concert. Houichi was happy enough to be led out every night to play for a seemingly noble crowd who obviously loved his talent but his mentor monk realised Houichi was fading away and one night, caught him playing in front of the graves. What did this mentor do, to save the boy? You can Google it and find out how he got to his ears chopped off😁! Lovely place with a chrysanthemum　as the emblem to show member/s of Royal...

Not many people seem to know the true charm of Akama at night. It may not shine as brightly as shrines in bigger cities, but here in Shimonoseki, there's a quiet, subtle beauty that lingers like a faint scent on the breeze.

Under the dark sky, it glows with a deep red hue—soft, yet captivating. There’s no need for noise or lights. Just the sound of the sea breeze brushing past, and the stillness that gently wraps around you.

As I strolled through the night, passing by this small yet majestic shrine, I found myself completely at peace— a rare moment to quietly walk, breathe, and simply think.

I hope you, too, get to experience that...

Came to this jinja after a short ferry ride from the Kyushu/Mojikou Port side to the Honshu/Yamaguchi side of the beautiful Kanmon Straits. It's about a 10-15 minute walk from the Karato ferry landing dock. Beautiful red and white structures and s pretty cute of the Kanmonkyo Bridge as you head back towards the street. No fee to enter our to look around, but a gift shop awaits to separate you and your funds. We went on a weekday during the late morning/early afternoon. A nice stop if you are in the area....