Early Morning Worship at Ōmiwa Shrine and Miwa Mountain

Ōmiwa Shrine in Sakurai is one of Japan's oldest shrines with Miwa Mountain as its sacred deity. Having no main hall, the original form of worship enshrining Miwa Mountain itself still endures today. The worship hall, which opens at 5:30 in the early morning, is filled with fresh, crisp air, and you can experience solemn time hearing only the sound of footsteps on gravel. The pilgrimage climb to Miwa Mountain (registration required) is a mountain trail of approximately 2 hours round trip, and the experience of viewing from the summit and encountering the spiritual energy is truly exceptional. After your visit, be sure to enjoy the famous Miwa somen noodles at the gate.