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Right on top of Mt. Otokoyama, in Yawata City nearby Kyoto,
lies a fantastic and rarely visited shrine: Iwashimizu Hachimangu.
Hidden in the lush forest are dozens of well-preserved buildings
that appear almost magical and take you back to a Japan that
has vanished.
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Hidden in the thick forest surrounding the
main shrine are lots of little treasure troves likes this kura
store building.
(Photo © Kjeld Duits)
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The shrine was founded in 859 and is dedicated to three spirits:
Emperor Ojin, the legendary Empress Jingu and the deity Hime
no Okami. For centuries the shrine played an important role as
guardian of Japan. Here samurai warriors worshiped the deity
of battle, and during the Muromachi Period (1333-1568) shoguns
frequently visited to pray.
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With very few visitors to attract attention,
the enormous courtyard appears almost magical.
(Photo © Kjeld Duits)
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The present shrine was constructed by the third Shogun of
the Edo Period, Tokugawa Iemitsu, and has been designated an
important cultural property. While it must have been quite a
climb up the mountain in historical times, these days there is
a convenient cable car.
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Iwashimizu hachimangu is one of the few shrines
to feature a real white horse, messenger of the gods.
(Photo © Kjeld Duits)
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 Short introduction to Yawata City
Short sightseeing itinerary for Yawata
City
Short introduction to Edison Memorial at Iwashimizu Hachimangu
Discover Kyoto with the Kyoto Visitor's Guide
Lots of current information on Kyoto
Excellent Fun Guide for Kyoto
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