What other travelers are saying about Oiwa Shrine, Hitachi
Especially beautiful if you like to immerse yourself in forest views and old growths. This shrine is set amidst the forest and is recommended if you are looking for a location for a light walk. It was raining when we visited but did not deter us. In fact it was a delight as the shrine staff near the entrance went to the trouble to pass us a few umbrellas to make it a more comfortable experience.
Love the unique lotus motif that is all around the shrine.
Oiwa Shrine is exceptionally rare for enshrining 188 gods, making it one of Japan's most significant multi-deity shrines. Most Japanese shrines typically enshrine only a few deities at most. The main shrine building itself houses 26 deities, while the entire complex is dedicated to the full 188 gods. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in Shinto spirituality and sacred sites.
Walking through the shrine grounds takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each site. If you plan to climb Mount Oiwa behind the shrine, allow approximately 40 minutes one way to reach the summit, plus time for descent. A complete visit including the mountain hike typically requires 2.5 to 3 hours. The shrine recommends starting your climb before 15:00 to ensure safe descent before dark.
Yes, the shrine is accessible to families with children, as the paths are well-maintained forest trails. Walking sticks are available for rental at the shrine office, which is helpful for elderly visitors or anyone concerned about walking uphill. However, visitors should be prepared for slopes and uneven terrain. The mountain climb behind the shrine is more challenging and requires appropriate footwear and physical fitness, though children do successfully complete the hike with proper supervision.
No, admission to Oiwa Shrine is free. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, view the ancient cedar trees, and pass through the various gates and structures without any entrance fee. If you rent walking sticks from the shrine office for the uphill paths, there may be a small rental fee, but access to the site itself is complimentary.
Take the JR Tokiwa Line Hitachi Express from Shinagawa, Tokyo, or Ueno stations to Hitachi Station, which takes approximately 90 minutes. From Hitachi Station, you have two options: take Bus No. 60 bound for Higashigodo from Bus Stop No. 1 and get off at Oiwa Shrine (approximately 35 minutes), or take a taxi (approximately 20 minutes). Bus frequency is limited, so checking the schedule beforehand is recommended. If driving, exit at Hitachi-Chuo IC on the Joban Expressway and drive 10 minutes along Route 36.
What a wonderful place right in the middle of the forest with fantastic old trees.
The shrines are located in a magical place that we visited during the week and we were lucky not many people were there at the same time. For the most part we were able to be just the two of us surrounded by nature and by the sound of water.
It took us around an hour and half to reach the summit and back to the car park n°2.
This is definitely a place I would highly recommend even if you come from Tokyo. On top of that we did not even have to pay to visit it!
A very beautiful and serene shrine in a forest environment. You can see some small animals like reptiles and beetles.
There's a small shop and a cooling room for those hot days. I really like this place.
Famous Japanese shrine for new year worships. Lot of people visit during the new year time. Big and historical place surrounded by huge old tress in the forest.
There are few car parks available, there is small restaurant too.
Awesome shrine. One of the best I’ve visited in Japan. Well kept and the grounds are very natural. Plenty of parking and bus access from Hitachi Station. Must visit place. Lots of hiking trails and restaurants.
