In the Footsteps of Jinmu, Japan’s Legendary First Emperor

A series of steep stone steps leads up to the Mihoko no Iwakura. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)

The Dragon God of the sea has also been known to put in appearances here. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)

Standing statue of Emperor Jinmu in front of the haiden. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)

The port area of Mimitsu is a national preservation district for historically important buildings. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)

Tateiwa Shrine. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)

The tateiwa (standing stone) behind the main shrine building. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)

This sacred spot inside the shrine precincts is said to mark the spot place where Jinmu rested during preparations for his departure to the east. (© Ōsaka Hiroshi)