Place of worship • 1422 Miwa, Sakurai, Nara 633-0001, Japan
Omiwa Shrine, located in the ancient land of Yamato mentioned in the Kojiki, is an esteemed shrine known as Japan's oldest. Designated as a national treasure, Mount Miwa is enshrined as the deity, and the traditional practice of revering the mountain through the three torii gates is still maintained.
It is about a 5-minute walk from the nearest Miwa Station, making it convenient to use the train. There are also several parking lots available for cars, so there is no need to worry about finding a parking space unless it is during the New Year's visit season. If you park near the Otorii Gate, you will feel the overwhelming presence up close.
As you proceed along the approach, the enormous Otorii Gate comes into view. Its height of 24m and width of 36m is said to be the largest in Japan, and it is astonishing to see its overwhelming presence compared to people and cars. Upon passing through the nationally designated important cultural property, the Otorii Gate, the scenery of Mount Miwa towering over the land unfolds.
Continuing along the approach to the main shrine, you will arrive at the subsidiary shrine, Sai Shrine. Here, there is a spring called 'Yakushi-no-Izumi' known as the 'Yakushi Palace' where you can draw water believed to cure all kinds of illnesses.
The greatest attraction of Omiwa Shrine is Mount Miwa itself. General visitors can climb the mountain, and from the mountaintop, there is a magnificent view of 'Daibimiwa-no-Mori', known for its cherry blossoms. The mountain has been the object of mountain worship since ancient times, and you can see rare plants such as the sacred spring water and the silver dragon grass.
Stalls line the approach, creating a lively atmosphere rich with local color. It is bustling with tourists seeking local specialties and souvenirs. During formal visits, you can also observe a ceremony performed by priests clad in splendid attire.
Omiwa Shrine is a sacred place where ancient mythology and nature coexist. It is a representative tourist spot in Nara where you can fully immerse yourself in the romance of history.
Provided by Google