Hello, fellow travel lovers!
This time, I visited Oiwa Shrine,
known as one of the top power spots in the Kanto region.
The moment I stepped onto the approach path—
the air changed.
The forest wasn’t just “quiet.”
It felt powerful.This is the real thing.
Harato Shrine Welcomes You
Before heading to the main shrine, you first stop to purify yourself.
Rice and sake offerings are neatly placed, showing deep devotion.
It feels like saying, “I’m entering your sacred space.”
About Oiwa Shrine
Oiwa Shrine has long been a place where the entire mountain is worshipped.
It is said that 188 deities are enshrined here.
There are Buddhist figures as well, reflecting its history of Shinto–Buddhist fusion.
Maybe that’s the reason this forest feels so powerful.
Through the Torii Gate
Beyond the gate stands a tall cedar-lined path.
Just walking between these towering trees makes your back straighten.
There is also a monument marking the 150th anniversary, reminding visitors of its long history.
Even Basho Came Here
A moss-covered stone bears a poem.
It is said that the famous haiku poet Matsuo Basho visited this mountain.
The stillness, the height of the cedars, the crisp air—
“No way, Basho was here too? I can’t lose to him.” (Not sure what that means… but still.)
The Three Great Cedars
These cedars are listed among Japan’s “Top 100 Forest Giants” selected by the Forestry Agency.
Yes—Top 100 nationwide.
Standing beneath them, you instantly know: “These are not just ordinary trees.”
They truly feel like giants.
The Grand Gate
A striking vermilion two-story gate suddenly appears in the forest.
It almost looks like a triumphal arch.
People look tiny beside it, which makes the sacred atmosphere even stronger.
Edo-Period Map
An old illustrated map shows past pilgrimage routes and the mountain layout.
The entire mountain is considered sacred.
To reach the summit shrine, proper hiking gear is needed.
Seriously—no heels.
Wooden Seated Dainichi Nyorai
Photography inside is not allowed.
A precious Heian-period Buddhist statue is enshrined here.
The space is so quiet, even your breathing feels different.
The Stone Figure in the Pond
In the middle of a small pond stands a stone figure that looks like a Buddha.
I don’t know its official name, but the air here feels especially gentle.
Wrapped in moss, quietly watching over the forest.
It’s simple—but I like it.
Purification Fountain
The water is clear and icy.
Just washing your hands refreshes your spirit.
Though in December, your hands may question your life choices.
Main Shrine
Not flashy, but solid and grounded.
There’s a calm strength here.
Mountain Path and Ubagami
Ubagami is known as a guardian deity of the mountain.
Believed to protect women and children.
You can still feel the traces of ancient mountain worship.
Inari Daimyojin
A deity of prosperity and harvest.
Part of the area was under construction during my visit, but I made sure to pray.
Final thoughts
What stayed with me most was this: “The air is real.”
Yes, there are many sights.
But the true highlight is the forest itself.
You have to walk it to understand.
A journey to reset your spirit—highly recommended.
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
＊＊TabiJun＊＊
