Oiwa Jinja Shrine

Overview

Oiwa Jinja Shrine is located in Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture, nestled on Mt. Oiwa, considered the oldest sacred mountain in Hitachi Province. Mt. Oiwa, standing at 530 meters, has been an object of faith since ancient times. Atop the mountain once stood a Shugendo training hall, where many yamabushi (mountain ascetics) practiced. Oiwa Jinja Shrine enshrines numerous deities, including Kuni-tokotachinushi-no-kami, Ōkuninushi, Izanagi, and Izanami, attracting worshippers for generations. The grounds are densely wooded, imbued with a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. The mountain trail is lined with giant trees, offering a majestic vista and a palpable sense of nature's power. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Nasu mountain range. Oiwa Jinja Shrine boasts a rich history of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism, evident in the Buddhist statues housed within the grounds, contributing to its unique atmosphere. In recent years, it has also gained attention as a power spot, attracting numerous visitors. The unique ambiance of Oiwa Jinja Shrine and the majestic natural beauty of Mt. Oiwa will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.