Quietly situated in the mountains of Uda City, Nara Prefecture, is the Kaiba Shrine. Dedicated to Ōyamatsumi-no-Mikoto, this shrine has a long history as the guardian shrine of the Kaichoji Temple. The shrine, integrated with the towering Kaibayama behind it, exudes a mystical atmosphere where nature and faith merge.
Kaiba Shrine carries fascinating legends. It is said that once a villager was attacked by a fox on Kaibayama, but the deity appeared and saved him. Since then, the people of the area have revered Ōyamatsumi-no-Mikoto as their tutelary deity.
On the right side of the main hall stands a large rock formation that seems to tell the history of the shrine. Beneath it is a small shrine, reminiscent of the times when the whole of Kaibayama was venerated as the sacred object.
At the adjacent Kaichoji Temple, a stunning carpet of ginkgo leaves spreads from late autumn to early winter. The grounds, dyed golden from mid-November to December, captivate the eyes of visitors.
You’ll ascend a narrow mountain road to reach the shrine. There is parking for about 5 to 6 cars, allowing for a leisurely visit. In the quiet, nature-surrounded environment, you can offer prayers with a calm mind.
Kaiba Shrine is a special place to experience a mystical encounter with the mountain deity. The unique atmosphere created by the weaving of nature and faith soothes the soul and provides new discoveries. In this shrine nestled in the mountains of Nara, you too can enjoy a quiet dialogue with the mountain deity.