Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, the Ōyama Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Ōkami, god of mountains and forests. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with a traditional Japanese-style torii gate flanked by a large stone bridge over a small stream. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which feature several ancient trees believed to have been present since the 7th century.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ōkami
- Kami enshrined
- Ōkami
- Coordinates
- 35.707749, 140.211154
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural surroundings, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening when the light is soft and golden.
Cultural notes
Ōyama Shrine is known for its association with the legend of Ōkuninushi, a Shinto deity who was said to have founded the city of Kashima. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in October to honor Ōkami.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 736 during the Nara period and relocated to its current site in the Edo period.