Ogamiyama-jinja Shrine Okunomiya

One shrine for winter and one for summer

Everything about Ogamiyama Shrine is captivating, from its history and design to its location. Situated in an ancient patch of forest on Mt. Daisen, the shrine is one of the places you should see in the Tottori area—so is the summer shrine, known as Okumiya.

Ogamiyama Shrine is made up of two shrines: Ogamiyama Shrine Honsha, also known as the winter shrine, and Okumiya, the summer shrine. Both shrines hold significant cultural and historical importance in japan.

The original shrine was built around 900 years ago, during the late Heian period (1068-1185). At that time, the shrine was a simple structure used by monks to worship. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated, becoming the impressive complex it is today.

Okumiya, the summer shrine, is registered as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. This designation highlights its historical and architectural significance. The shrine is known for its beautiful design and intricate details, showcasing the craftsmanship of the past.

To reach Ogamiyama Shrine, you can take local buses that operate around five times a day between Yonago Station and Mt. Daisen. There is also a loop bus that runs from Yonago Station to Daisen’s main tourism spots during peak season, weekends, and holidays. From the bus stop, it is a 30-minute walk to the shrine.

For those coming from Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto, you can take the Sanyo Shinkansen heading to Hakata and switch to the Yakumo Limited Express at Okayama Station. This train route will take you to Yonago Station, where you can then proceed to the shrine.

Ogamiyama Shrine is truly a place for all seasons. During the winter months, visitors can experience the tranquility and beauty of the winter shrine, Ogamiyama Shrine Honsha. Covered in snow, the shrine takes on a magical atmosphere, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

On the other hand, during the summer months, Okumiya comes alive with vibrant colors and festivities. The summer shrine is a site for reverence and celebration, attracting locals and tourists alike. The contrast between the winter and summer shrines adds to the allure of Ogamiyama Shrine.

One of the remarkable features of Ogamiyama Shrine is its size and architectural style. It has the largest Gongen-style shrine in the country, making it a unique and grand structure. The shrine’s design showcases traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship, with intricate details and ornate decorations.

Another distinctive aspect of Ogamiyama Shrine is the use of byakudan nuri, a special technique in which raw lacquer is painted on top of a silver foil to create a gold color through a chemical reaction. Byakudan nuri is a rare and exquisite art form, and the shrine features the largest example of this technique in Japan.

The history of Ogamiyama Shrine is intertwined with the sacred mountain, Mt. Daisen. The mountain, formerly known as Ogamiyama, was a major site of Shugendo, a Japanese Buddhist tradition of mountain ascetic practices. Shugendo combines elements of Shinto, Buddhism, Shamanism, and mountain worship.

Mt. Daisen, considered a sacred mountain, was once a center for monks practicing Shugendo. The monks would live in the wild, embracing the challenges of nature and abstaining from modern comforts. The shrine was initially built as a place of worship for these monks, and it has since become an important religious and cultural site.

Visiting Ogamiyama Shrine is not only an opportunity to appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance but also a chance to connect with nature. The shrine is surrounded by a serene forest on Mt. Daisen, offering a peaceful and tranquil environment. The sacred atmosphere of the shrine and its surroundings provide a sense of calm and spirituality.

In conclusion, Ogamiyama Shrine is a must-visit destination in the Tottori area. Its rich history, stunning design, and picturesque location make it a captivating site for travelers. Whether you visit during the winter or summer, you will be enchanted by the beauty and serenity of Ogamiyama Shrine. Take the time to explore both the winter and summer shrines, and immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders of this sacred place.

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