Omiwa Shrine (Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Omiwa Shrine (commonly known as Miwa Myojin) is an ancient shrine located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, and is considered one of the oldest shrines in Japan. The enshrined deity is Omononushi no Okami, and the shrine's greatest feature is that Mount Miwa (467m above sea level) itself is considered the object of worship. There is no main shrine (honden) within the grounds, and worshippers worship the mountain itself from the worship hall, strongly retaining the ancient form of worship.

This historic shrine, which is mentioned in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, has been deeply involved with the Imperial Court, agriculture, and sake brewing since ancient times. Even today, religious ceremonies are held here throughout the year, and its greatest appeal is that you can feel the atmosphere of nature worship and primitive beliefs.

Highlights

• The worship hall and Mt. Miwa: The view of Mt. Miwa (the sacred object) from the worship hall is a sight unique to Omiwa Shrine. You can experience the solemn atmosphere of the sacred area.
• Sai Shrine and Medicinal Well: A subsidiary shrine that has long been a place of worship for healing from illness and injury. Prayers using pure water (medicinal well) and prayers at the shrine office are held (check for details on-site).
• Large torii gate and approach to the shrine: The large torii gate and approach to the shrine welcome worshippers and are especially gorgeous during New Year's visits and festivals.
• Ancient atmosphere: The entire mountain is designed as a sacred object, allowing you to experience ancient religious practices and Japanese spiritual culture.
• Local food culture: After worshiping, you can enjoy "Miwa Somen" noodles and local sake from a local sake brewery. Omiwa Shrine has long been worshipped as the guardian deity of sake brewing.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station
  • JR Sakurai Line (Man'yo Mahoroba Line) "Miwa Station": About 5-10 minutes on foot. This is the most convenient and easily accessible station.
  • JR/Kintetsu Sakurai Station: Approximately 20-30 minutes on foot, or 5-10 minutes by bus or taxi.
• public transportation
  • Access from the Kansai area is generally by JR, and travel from the Yamatoji and Nara areas is convenient.
  • During the tourist season, regular buses and special buses may run from Sakurai Station and Miwa Station.
• car
  • From the Hanshin and Osaka areas, it takes about an hour via Nishi-Meihan and the national highway (depending on the starting point). Parking is available (may be full during peak season).
• Note: Reception hours for the shrine office and treasure hall vary depending on the season, so we recommend checking the official website or local information before visiting.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short visit: 30-45 minutes (prayer at the worship hall + stroll around the grounds)
• Relaxed worship: 1-2 hours (including visiting the auxiliary shrines, using the shrine office, and strolling around the area)
• If you include climbing Mt. Miwa: Half a day to a full day (depending on the availability of hiking trails and your physical strength. As the mountain is a sacred area, you must follow the rules)

Nearby spots

• Hasedera Temple: A representative temple in the Sakurai/Uda area. It is especially known for its peonies (spring) and autumn leaves.
• Hashihaka Tomb: A large ancient tomb with ties to ancient history, perfect for a historical stroll around the Miwa area.
• Asuka and Ishibutai Kofun Area: The Asuka region is dotted with burial mounds and ancient ruins. It is an area that can be easily explored by car.
• Local sake brewery and Miwa somen noodle shop: We recommend trying the local specialties after visiting the shrine.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Manners at a place of worship: Maintain quiet and observe proper worship etiquette (two bows, two claps, one bow, etc.). Please refrain from putting on or taking off hats or talking loudly.
• Mt. Miwa is a sacred object: As the mountain area is a sacred area, there may be restrictions on entry and rules for climbing. When entering the mountain, please follow the local warning signs and the guidance of the shrine office.
• Regarding photography: While photography is permitted in many areas within the temple grounds, there are times and places where photography is prohibited, such as during ceremonies and rituals or inside the shrine buildings, so please follow the signs.
• congestion
  • The shrine will be extremely crowded during New Year's visits (New Year's Day to early January), long holidays, and regular festivals. If you are coming by car, please expect traffic congestion and parking restrictions.
• Seasonal precautions
  • Be sure to take precautions against the heat in summer and the cold in winter. The weather in the mountains is changeable, so be sure to prepare your clothing and shoes properly if you plan to venture to the foot of the mountain.
• Offerings and prayers: The hours for receiving goshuin (stamps), talismans, amulets, and prayers depend on the opening hours of the shrine office. Waiting times may be long during busy periods, so please allow yourself plenty of time.

Reference: Before visiting, it is a good idea to check the latest information (e.g. special festival days, shrine office hours, and precautions for climbing the shrine) on the official Omiwa Shrine website or Sakurai City tourist information.