Omiwa Shrine
Ancient Shinto shrine dedicated to the sacred Mount Miwa, offering a tranquil spiritual escape and a challenging pilgrimage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Omiwa Shrine
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Shinto shrine dedicated to the sacred Mount Miwa, offering a tranquil spiritual escape and a challenging pilgrimage.
"A marvelous place, peaceful and feels spiritual, away from the tourist crowds. "
⛰️ Hike Mount Miwa Wisely
Sign the form & get a talisman at the shrine before ascending. It's a ~1.5 hr trek. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink the Holy Water
Seek out the holy water at smaller halls; locals believe it can cure illness. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Miwa Sacred Peak
Summit of Mount Miwa
Embark on a pilgrimage to the summit for breathtaking views and spiritual connection. Requires a talisman and adherence to shrine rules.
Omiwa Shrine Main Hall
Main shrine complex
Experience the spiritual heart of the shrine, known for its unique worship of Mount Miwa and its impressive architecture.
Hall of Fame of Donators
Within the shrine grounds
Admire the unique display of past donors, a testament to the shrine's long history and community support.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit to Mount Miwa
Tranquil Escape from Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛰️ Hike Mount Miwa Wisely
Sign the form & get a talisman at the shrine before ascending. It's a ~1.5 hr trek. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink the Holy Water
Seek out the holy water at smaller halls; locals believe it can cure illness. :droplet:
🙏 Shrine Prayer Etiquette
Follow the 2 bows, 2 claps, silent wish, 1 bow ritual. Bow at the torii gate. +1 :pray:
🌸 Witness a Wedding
You might be lucky to see a traditional wedding ceremony, a beautiful cultural experience. :wedding:
Infos about Omiwa shrine in Nara
Tips
from all over the internet
⛰️ Hike Mount Miwa Wisely
Sign the form & get a talisman at the shrine before ascending. It's a ~1.5 hr trek. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink the Holy Water
Seek out the holy water at smaller halls; locals believe it can cure illness. :droplet:
🙏 Shrine Prayer Etiquette
Follow the 2 bows, 2 claps, silent wish, 1 bow ritual. Bow at the torii gate. +1 :pray:
🌸 Witness a Wedding
You might be lucky to see a traditional wedding ceremony, a beautiful cultural experience. :wedding:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Omiwa Shrine for its peaceful, authentic atmosphere, a welcome escape from crowded tourist spots. The opportunity to hike the sacred Mount Miwa and witness traditional ceremonies adds to its unique appeal. Some note the hike's difficulty and the need for preparation.
"This place is a little bit far from the city, so it is very quiet and feels peaceful when I go there. It’s the first Jinja I visited in Japan. Not very much tourist come here, mostly are local people. Luckily I saw someone having their traditional wedding there!"
Zhi Qing Lim
"What a marvelous place. There is also a pilgrimage you can do here. There is a mountain you can climb, at the top there is a temple. It is like 1 hour 30 minutes walking to the top, a bit difficult if you're not trained or do exercises frequently. The view is impressive. You need to pay and wear a talisman before going up. Be sure to read and ask before anything to avoid misconduct or causing trouble to the people. Remember this is a religious place and must be treated with respect."
Alessandro Stefan
"Omiwa Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in Nara, Japan, known for its unique worship of Mount Miwa, a sacred mountain. The shrine is a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty, attracting visitors seeking tranquility and connection to the divine."
Japanese Akita Nana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Omiwa Shrine is a bit of a journey from central Nara. You can take a train to Miwa Station, which is the closest station to the shrine. From there, it's a short walk. Consider checking local bus routes as well, though trains are often more straightforward for tourists.
Yes, Omiwa Shrine is accessible by public transport. The nearest train station is Miwa Station on the JR Sakurai Line. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the shrine.
Omiwa Shrine is located in Nara Prefecture, which is a day trip distance from Osaka. You'll likely need to take a train from Osaka to Nara, and then transfer to a local line heading towards Miwa Station. The total travel time can be around 1.5 to 2 hours.
For a day trip, taking a train from your base in Nara or even Osaka is recommended. Aim to arrive at Miwa Station and then walk to the shrine. This allows you to manage your time effectively and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
While specific details can vary, larger shrines often have parking available. It's advisable to check the official Omiwa Shrine website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date information on parking availability and any associated fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main grounds of Omiwa Shrine is typically free. However, there might be fees associated with specific activities, such as the pilgrimage up Mount Miwa, which requires a talisman.
Shrine hours can vary, but generally, Omiwa Shrine is open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening and closing times.
Yes, there is a requirement to obtain a talisman and potentially fill out a form at Omiwa Shrine before you can begin the hike up Mount Miwa. This process may involve a small fee.
Absolutely! The main shrine complex itself is a significant and beautiful place to visit. You can explore the shrine grounds, admire the architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere without undertaking the mountain climb.
As a religious site, visitors are expected to be respectful. For the Mount Miwa hike, you'll need to complete a form and wear a talisman. It's always good practice to dress modestly when visiting shrines. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To fully experience Omiwa Shrine, take your time exploring the main hall, consider the pilgrimage up Mount Miwa if you're prepared, and seek out the holy water for a unique ritual. Observe the local customs and enjoy the tranquility. +1
The hike up Mount Miwa typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the summit. The return journey will also take a similar amount of time, so allocate at least 3 hours for the round trip, plus time at the shrine.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during warmer months. Be prepared for varying weather conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Omiwa Shrine, but it's always respectful to avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies or in sacred inner areas. Be mindful of signage.
Mount Miwa is considered a sacred entity and is the primary object of worship at Omiwa Shrine. The shrine is unique in that it worships the mountain itself, rather than a deity housed within a building.
📸 📸 Photography
The main shrine hall with its distinctive architecture is a great subject. The path leading up to the shrine and the surrounding natural landscape also offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Look for unique angles and details.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and national parks to ensure safety and respect. It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted at Omiwa Shrine. Always check local regulations. :noentrysign:
While general photography is usually permitted, avoid taking photos inside restricted areas or during private ceremonies. Always be respectful of worshippers and the sacred nature of the site.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere. This also coincides with fewer crowds.
Explore the smaller sub-shrines and the paths leading away from the main hall. The natural surroundings of Mount Miwa also offer stunning backdrops. Keep an eye out for interesting architectural details and cultural elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hike is strenuous, the shrine itself provides opportunities for children to learn about Japanese culture and religious practices. Explaining the purification rituals and the significance of the shrine can make the visit educational and engaging. Remember to keep the visit respectful and mindful of the sacred nature of the site.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Pilgrims
Engage with the local customs by participating in the purification rituals and prayer etiquette. The shrine's historical significance as one of Japan's oldest shrines adds another layer to the experience. Take your time to absorb the serene environment and the unique worship of Mount Miwa.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacredness of Mount Miwa
The pilgrimage up Mount Miwa is a journey of spiritual purification and connection. The trail itself is well-maintained but can be challenging for those unaccustomed to hiking. The ascent offers a chance for quiet contemplation amidst nature, culminating in a rewarding view from the summit. It's a profound experience that goes beyond simple sightseeing, offering a glimpse into ancient Shinto beliefs.
Shrine Etiquette and Rituals
When praying at the shrine, the common ritual involves tossing a coin into the offering box, ringing a bell to alert the deities, bowing twice, clapping twice, offering your silent prayer or wish, and finally bowing once more. Exiting the shrine grounds, especially after passing through the torii gate, often involves a final bow as a sign of gratitude.
Social
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