One shrine for winter and one for summer
Ogamiyama Shrine, located on Mt. Daisen in the Tottori area, is a captivating place that is steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. The shrine is actually made up of two separate shrines—the main shrine, known as Ogamiyama Shrine, and the summer shrine, called Okumiya. Both of these shrines have their own unique characteristics and are worth visiting for different reasons.
The first thing that strikes you about Ogamiyama Shrine is its location. Situated in an ancient patch of forest on Mt. Daisen, the shrine is surrounded by towering trees and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The forest itself is a designated natural monument and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. As you make your way through the forest towards the shrine, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the natural beauty that surrounds you.
The history of Ogamiyama Shrine dates back around 900 years. The original shrine was built during the late Heian period, a time when japan was undergoing significant cultural and religious changes. The shrine was originally established as a place for monks to worship and practice their ascetic traditions. It was later expanded and became a center for Shugendo, a Japanese Buddhist tradition that combines elements of Shinto, Buddhism, Shamanism, and mountain worship.
What sets Ogamiyama Shrine apart from other shrines in Japan is its unique design and architectural features. The shrine is known for its Gongen-style architecture, which is characterized by its grandeur and scale. It is the largest Gongen-style shrine in the country and is a testament to the craftsmanship and skill of the artisans who built it. The shrine also features the largest example 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. This intricate and delicate art form is rarely seen in other shrines and adds to the shrine’s beauty and uniqueness.
The shrine complex itself is divided into two sections—the main shrine and the summer shrine. The main shrine, Ogamiyama Shrine, is the focal point of the complex and is where most of the religious ceremonies and rituals take place. It is a place of deep reverence and spiritual significance for the local community and attracts many visitors throughout the year.
On the other hand, the summer shrine, Okumiya, is registered as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It is a smaller shrine located at the foot of the mountain and is dedicated to the worship of the gods during the summer months. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for visitors who want to escape the heat and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
To get to Ogamiyama Shrine, you can take a local bus from Yonago Station to Mt. Daisen. The shrine is a 30-minute walk from the bus stop, and there are also loop buses that run from Yonago Station to Daisen’s main tourism spots during peak season, weekends, and holidays. If you are coming from Kobe, Osaka, or Kyoto, you can take the Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station and then switch to the Yakumo Limited Express to Yonago Station.
Visiting Ogamiyama Shrine is not just about admiring its architecture and natural surroundings—it is also an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural and religious history of the region. The shrine has played an important role in the development of Shugendo and has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. It continues to be a place of worship and spiritual significance for the local community, and visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and spirituality by experiencing the rituals and traditions that take place at the shrine.
In conclusion, Ogamiyama Shrine is a place of immense beauty, history, and spirituality. Its location in the ancient forest on Mt. Daisen, its unique architecture and design, and its cultural and religious significance make it a must-visit destination in the Tottori area. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful and serene place to connect with nature, Ogamiyama Shrine has something to offer.
Address And Maps Location:
1 Daisen, Daisen-cho, Saihaku-gun, Tottori-ken
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