Shizuka Jinja Shrine

Shizuka Shrine is located on a hill in Iso, Amino, which is said to be the birthplace of Shizuka Gozen, one of the Seven Princesses of Kyotango and Shizuka Gozen is enshrined here.

Born in Iso, Amino, Shizuka Gozen was a leading dancer in the Imperial Courtin the 1100s. After catching the eye of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, millitary commander is one of the most powerful families ruling Japan at the time, she became his concubine.

After the Minamoto clan brought down the reigning Heike Clan (also known as the Taira clan) in 1185, Shizuka and Yoshitsune became separated due to conflicts in the Minamoto clan. Fleeing this, Shizuka went on to become a nun, dedicating the rest of her life to Buddhism and escaping back to her hometown in Amino, where she prayed for her husband’s safety.

The shrine itself is a great vantge point for views of the Sea of Japan from its observation deck.