5 - Ise Pilgrimage and the Cultural History of Religious Itineracy in Early Modern Japan

This presentation explores the relationship between folk religion and pilgrimage to the Ise Shrines in early modern Japan. The Ise Shrines, consisting of the Inner Shrine (Naiku) and the Outer Shrine (Geku), are of great significance to Japanese religious and cultural history. Pilgrimages to these sacred sites were a prominent feature of early modern Japanese religious life and left a rich cultural legacy spanning many regions and institutions. Pilgrims, rich and poor, embarked on journeys to Ise to seek the joys of travel away from the pressures of work and home, along with blessings and spiritual fulfillment.

The dynamics of “folk religion,” characterized by local customs and beliefs and the localization and outreach activities of major institutions, helped shape Ise pilgrimage as a cultural phenomenon. In this regard, an important role was played by low-ranking religious specialists living a symbiotic existence with the ordinary folk. They served not only as organizers and wayfinders but also as shapers and transmitters of culture and ritual. Focusing on the roles of pilgrim guides and wandering ascetics, this presentation explores the ways in which “folk religion” was a vital part of the Ise Shrine pilgrimages. By analyzing setsuwa hortatory narratives, pilgrimage literature, and iconography, this study sheds light on the complex interplay between popular religiosity and the traditions centered around the Ise Shrines. The results of this research offer insights into the diverse nature of Japanese spirituality during the early modern period and its lasting impact on contemporary religious practices.