Omiwa Shrine
The oldest shrine in Japan, worshipping the mountain itself.
Considered the oldest existing shrine in Japan, Omiwa Shrine has no main hall because the deity is the mountain itself (Mt. Miwa). It is a powerful spot for Sake brewers and medicine.
History of the Shrine
Omiwa Shrine preserves the most primitive form of Shinto worship: nature worship. There is no 'Honden' (Main Hall) to house the deity; instead, worshippers pray through a particular 'Mitsutorii' (Three-arch Torii) directly towards Mount Miwa. This suggests its origins predate the concept of shrine buildings.
It is mentioned in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki as a major religious center. The deity, Omononushi, is a 'Sakitama' (spirit aspect) of Okuninushi, the creator of the land.
The Enshrined Kami
What to See
The 'Mitsutorii' (Triple Torii) is a rare and sacred gate kept behind the worship hall. The mountain itself is open for climbing/worship ('tohai'), but it is strictly religious (not for hiking), and photography is forbidden on the mountain.
The shrine is the guardian of sake brewing. You will see a giant 'Sugidama' (cedar ball) hanging in the worship hall, a symbol of sake brewers nationwide.
Major Festivals
The 'Ominwa Matsuri' in spring and autumn are grand events. On November 14th, the 'Sake Matsuri' gathers brewers from all over Japan to pray for a good brewing season.
Support Omiwa Shrine
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