Omiwa Shrine

Omiwa Shrine (大神神社, Ōmiwa-jinja), is one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines. Surrounded by peaceful forest at the foot of Mount Miwa, it sits along the historic Yamanobe-no-michi walking trail. Unlike most shrines, Omiwa doesn’t have a main building for its deity. Instead, Mount Miwa itself is worshiped as the sacred object of faith. Okuninushi, a key Shinto god, is believed to be connected to this mountain.

Worship is offered through a rare triple torii gate (called mitsu-torii) behind the prayer hall. This ancient gate style is rarely seen elsewhere. To view it, visitors must ask at the shrine office and be guided by a priest. About 20 minutes north, along the same trail, you’ll find Hibara Shrine, an associated site with another triple torii. The entire area offers a special spiritual atmosphere, deeply rooted in Japan’s earliest beliefs.