Omiwa Jinja

Map

History & Origins

Often cited as Japan's oldest shrine, Mt. Miwa has been an object of reverence since the Jomon period. Climbing the sacred mountain is still treated as a deeply spiritual act and requires a formal application.

Highlights

The pilgrimage up Mt. Miwa (open to the public with prior registration), the massive 32-meter-tall torii gate, and the distinctive Mitsu-torii (triple torii) are the main draws. The air throughout the precincts feels remarkably pure and still.

Visitor Guide

Climbing Mt. Miwa takes approximately 3 hours. Strict rules apply: no food or drink on the trail, no photography. Purify yourself with the sacred water from Odaishi-sui spring after descending.

Best Season

Spring for cherry blossoms and fresh greenery; autumn for fall foliage.

Blessings

Annual Events

• April

  Hanashizume no Matsuri (Festival to Calm the Flowers)

  Held on April 18, this ancient festival is performed to prevent epidemics during the season when flowers fall. It is an important festival linked to the virtues of Omononushi no Okami as a deity of medicine and protection from disease.

• November

  Jozo Anzen Kigansai (Sake Brewing Safety Festival, Sake Festival)

  A festival for brewers held on November 14. Sake brewers from across Japan offer new cedar balls (sugidama) and give thanks and pray for the completion of new sake and for brewing safety.

• April

  Omiwasai (Omiwa Festival)

  Held as the spring grand annual festival. It is one of the most important festivals of the year at the first shrine of Yamato Province, and solemn, traditional rituals are performed.

Travel Plan

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