Ogamiyama Shrine Okunomiya (大神山神社 奥宮)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This is the Okunomiya (Inner Shrine) of Ogamiyama Shrine, which reveres Mount Daisen itself as its sacred body, an ancient shrine with one of Japan's largest gongen-zukuri style shrine buildings. The highlight, above all, is the natural stone-paved approach, said to be the longest of its kind in Japan at about 700m. Climbing step by step along the stone path winding between the cedar trees, you'll come across the rare Ushiromuki-mon (Backward-Facing Gate), which stands facing away from the direction you're walking rather than toward you, and beyond it the solemn shrine building comes into view. The beauty of the byakudan-nuri (sandalwood-colored lacquer) finish inside the shrine building is also remarkable, and the grounds, wrapped in the mountain's sacred atmosphere, feel as if they clear your mind just by walking through them. This is the foremost sacred precinct on this course, letting you feel firsthand the depth of Mount Daisen's mountain worship tradition.

Tips

The stone paving can be slippery right after rain, so shoes with a firm sole are essential. The approach continues uphill, so allow plenty of time and walk at a relaxed pace. Even in summer, the shade of the cedar trees is cool, making this a pleasant path for a body that's worked up a sweat.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour 15 minutes. In the morning, the approach has few people, letting you walk the sunlight-dappled stone path in quiet

Access & map

〒689-3318 鳥取県西伯郡大山町大山１