{"id":162,"date":"2026-07-13T22:44:41","date_gmt":"2026-07-13T13:44:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/"},"modified":"2026-07-13T22:44:41","modified_gmt":"2026-07-13T13:44:41","slug":"discover-the-mystical-mitsumine-shrine-okumiya-a-journey-to-a-sacred-power-spot","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/","title":{"rendered":"Discover the Mystical Mitsumine Shrine Okumiya: A Journey to a Sacred Power Spot!"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Japan is full of places that make you forget the hustle and bustle of city life and cleanse your soul. Among them, one place truly stuns international visitors with its mysterious atmosphere, making them ask, \"Is this really Japan?\" We're talking about the Okumiya (inner shrine) of Mitsumine Shrine in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture.<\/p>\n<p>This article will delve into the captivating allure of Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya. By the time you finish reading, you'll undoubtedly want to visit yourself!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Uncover what Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya is, its charm, and its rich history!<\/li>\n<li>Learn how to access the Okumiya, important precautions, and necessary preparations!<\/li>\n<li>Refresh your mind and body amidst Chichibu's magnificent nature!<\/li>\n<li>Experience Japan's sacred culture and have a truly special encounter!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#What_is_Mitsumine_Shrine_Okumiya_Diving_into_its_History_and_Mysticism\" >What is Mitsumine Shrine Okumiya? Diving into its History and Mysticism!<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Unraveling_the_History_of_Chichibu_Mitsumine_Shrines_Okumiya\" >Unraveling the History of Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Why_is_the_Okumiya_Called_a_%22Sanctuary_in_the_Sky%22\" >Why is the Okumiya Called a \"Sanctuary in the Sky\"?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Breathtaking_Views_that_Cleanse_Your_Soul_Only_at_the_Okumiya\" >Breathtaking Views that Cleanse Your Soul, Only at the Okumiya<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Lets_Go_to_Mitsumine_Shrine_Okumiya_in_Chichibu_Access_and_Visiting_Tips\" >Let's Go to Mitsumine Shrine Okumiya in Chichibu! Access and Visiting Tips<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Thorough_Guide_to_Accessing_the_Okumiya_A_Safe_Route_for_Beginners\" >Thorough Guide to Accessing the Okumiya! A Safe Route for Beginners<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Okumiya_Visit_What_to_Wear_and_Bring_%E2%80%93_Your_Perfect_Checklist\" >Okumiya Visit: What to Wear and Bring \u2013 Your Perfect Checklist!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Okumiya_Etiquette_and_How_to_Gain_More_Blessings\" >Okumiya Etiquette and How to Gain More Blessings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Explore_Nearby_Spots_Around_the_Okumiya_to_Fully_Enjoy_Chichibus_Charm\" >Explore Nearby Spots Around the Okumiya to Fully Enjoy Chichibu's Charm!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/deepjapanhub.com\/en\/dailylifeinjapan\/162\/#Conclusion_Experience_a_Memorable_Spiritual_Journey_at_Chichibu_Mitsumine_Shrines_Okumiya\" >Conclusion: Experience a Memorable Spiritual Journey at Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Mitsumine_Shrine_Okumiya_Diving_into_its_History_and_Mysticism\"><\/span>What is Mitsumine Shrine Okumiya? Diving into its History and Mysticism!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>\"Japan is so rich in nature, and there are so many places where it feels like gods reside!\"<\/p>\n<p>Have you ever heard that from an international friend? Especially in Japan, where mountain worship is deeply rooted, mountains themselves are considered sacred, and it's not uncommon for shrines to be built on their peaks. The Okumiya of Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine is precisely one such place \u2013 a \"sanctuary in the sky\" quietly nestled atop a sacred mountain.<\/p>\n<p>Here, we'll explore the history of the Okumiya and deep-dive into why it's known as a \"mystical power spot.\"<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Learn about the history and origins of Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya!<\/li>\n<li>Why is the Okumiya called a \"mystical power spot\"?<\/li>\n<li>What special energy can you feel at the Okumiya?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unraveling_the_History_of_Chichibu_Mitsumine_Shrines_Okumiya\"><\/span>Unraveling the History of Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Okumiya of Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine is located on the summit of Mt. Myohogatake, standing at an elevation of 1,329m, surrounded by the mountains of Chichibu. According to shrine tradition, its establishment dates back to <strong>Kanpo 1 (1741)<\/strong>. That's over 280 years ago, an ancient shrine built in the mid-Edo period!<\/p>\n<p>Tracing the history of Mitsumine Shrine as a whole, it goes back even further to the time of Emperor Keiko. Prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto visited this area during his eastern expedition and, admiring the magnificent scenery of the three peaks \u2013 Mt. Kumotori, Mt. Myohogatake, and Mt. Shiroiwa \u2013 named the area \"Mitsumine.\" This name, \"Mitsumine,\" literally refers to these <strong>three peaks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The main deities enshrined at Mitsumine Shrine are the married gods of creation from Japanese mythology, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto. And central to Mitsumine Shrine's story is the presence of the <strong>wolf (Okami)<\/strong>, revered as a divine messenger, also known as \"Oguchi Makami.\" It's one of the rare shrines in Japan that enshrines wolves as divine messengers, and it has long been worshipped as a guardian deity for hunters and those working in the mountains. The simple yet powerful appearance of the Okumiya seems to tell the story of the deep nature worship and wolf worship rooted in this land.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_the_Okumiya_Called_a_%22Sanctuary_in_the_Sky%22\"><\/span>Why is the Okumiya Called a \"Sanctuary in the Sky\"?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Why is Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya referred to as a \"sanctuary in the sky\" or a \"mystical power spot\"? There are several reasons.<\/p>\n<p>First, its location. The Okumiya is situated at the summit of Mt. Myohogatake, at an elevation of <strong>1,329m<\/strong>, requiring a hike of approximately <strong>1.5 to 2.5 hours<\/strong> southeast from the main shrine. Because it's located so high up, depending on the weather, you can sometimes witness a breathtaking <strong>sea of clouds<\/strong> stretching below you. This mystical sight, as if floating above the clouds, truly earns it the name \"sanctuary in the sky.\"<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, the ancient belief in the <strong>wolf<\/strong> as a divine messenger, as mentioned earlier, also enhances the Okumiya's mystique. In Japan, wolves were considered servants of the mountain gods, sometimes feared, sometimes revered. As people lived in harmony with both the threats and blessings of nature, wolves became a special object of worship. This wolf worship, combined with the legend of its founding by Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, makes the Okumiya not just a shrine on a mountaintop, but a place imbued with special power, attracting many hearts.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, visiting the Okumiya is restricted to a specific period: from <strong>May 3rd (mountain opening) to October 9th (mountain closing)<\/strong>. It's closed during winter, meaning you can only visit for a limited time. This exclusivity further contributes to the Okumiya's mystical aura.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Breathtaking_Views_that_Cleanse_Your_Soul_Only_at_the_Okumiya\"><\/span>Breathtaking Views that Cleanse Your Soul, Only at the Okumiya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The ultimate \"reward\" for those who reach the Okumiya is its magnificent scenery. The view from the summit is nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, a grand panorama of the Chichibu mountains unfolds, and you can even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji in the distance.<\/p>\n<p>If you can visit early in the morning, you might be lucky enough to witness a <strong>sea of clouds<\/strong>. The sight of clouds resembling an ocean, with mountain peaks appearing like islands, is otherworldly beautiful. Witnessing this view will surely make your daily worries and fatigue disappear, leaving you with a sense of profound spiritual cleansing.<\/p>\n<p>While the Okumiya itself is a <strong>simple stone shrine<\/strong>, its presence exudes a solemn atmosphere, as if one with nature. Unlike the ornate shrines you might find in cities, the Okumiya's unique charm lies in allowing you to feel the raw power and sublimity of nature. Take a deep breath here, and you'll surely feel a refreshing energy filling your body.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lets_Go_to_Mitsumine_Shrine_Okumiya_in_Chichibu_Access_and_Visiting_Tips\"><\/span>Let's Go to Mitsumine Shrine Okumiya in Chichibu! Access and Visiting Tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>\"Japanese shrines are all so solemn and beautiful, but how do you get to a shrine on top of a mountain?\"<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps some international visitors are wondering this. Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya is located on a high mountain peak, so visiting requires thorough preparation and a certain level of physical fitness. But don't worry! Here, we'll provide detailed information on the route to the Okumiya and tips for a comfortable visit.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A detailed explanation of the route to the Okumiya!<\/li>\n<li>What to wear and what to bring before your visit<\/li>\n<li>Advice for enjoying your Okumiya visit even more<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Thorough_Guide_to_Accessing_the_Okumiya_A_Safe_Route_for_Beginners\"><\/span>Thorough Guide to Accessing the Okumiya! A Safe Route for Beginners<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Okumiya is located further up a mountain trail from the main grounds of Mitsumine Shrine. First, aim for the Mitsumine Shrine parking lot.<\/p>\n<p><strong>[Access by Car]<\/strong>The nearest parking lot is the <strong>Chichibu Municipal Parking Lot<\/strong>. From the parking lot, walk past the right side of Yamarokutei for about 3-4 minutes to reach the Okumiya approach entrance.<\/p>\n<p><strong>[Access by Public Transportation]<\/strong>You can also combine train and bus travel.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>From <strong>Chichibu Railway's \"Mitsumineguchi Station,\"<\/strong> take a <strong>Seibu Bus<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>From <strong>Seibu Line's \"Seibu-Chichibu Station,\"<\/strong> take a <strong>Seibu Bus<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In both cases, take the bus bound for Mitsumine Shrine and get off at the final stop, \"Mitsumine Shrine\" bus stop.<\/p>\n<p><strong>[Hiking Route to the Okumiya]<\/strong>From the bus stop or parking lot, enter the grounds of Mitsumine Shrine and head towards the hiking trail to the Okumiya. The trail entrance is located at the back of the shrine.<\/p>\n<p>From the main shrine (Mitsumine Shrine) to the Okumiya, you'll need to hike approximately <strong>2.5 hours<\/strong> (or <strong>1.5 to 2.5 hours<\/strong>) southeast along a mountain trail. Allow about <strong>3 hours<\/strong> for the round trip.<\/p>\n<p>The difficulty of the hiking trail varies slightly between the first and second halves.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>First half (approx. 15 minutes)<\/strong>: You'll walk along a ridge. The path is relatively gentle, but be careful not to fall into the valley.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Second half (approx. 15 minutes)<\/strong>: This is the final push. From here, you'll encounter <strong>chains (kusariba)<\/strong> and <strong>steep stone steps<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The hiking trail is a beautiful path rich in nature, lined with <strong>cedar and oak trees<\/strong>. After passing through the <strong>third torii gate<\/strong>, the trail becomes genuinely <strong>steep<\/strong>, with sections requiring you to navigate <strong>rocky areas<\/strong>, <strong>tree roots<\/strong>, <strong>stairs<\/strong>, and even <strong>chains<\/strong>. However, the path is relatively <strong>well-maintained<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Since the Okumiya is not an easy place to visit, a <strong>Yo-haijo (remote worship hall)<\/strong> is provided within the shrine grounds. If you find the hike physically challenging or don't have enough time to reach the Okumiya, you can worship the Okumiya from here. From the Yo-haijo, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Chichibu mountains and, if you're lucky, even a <strong>sea of clouds<\/strong>, so be sure to stop by.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Okumiya_Visit_What_to_Wear_and_Bring_%E2%80%93_Your_Perfect_Checklist\"><\/span>Okumiya Visit: What to Wear and Bring \u2013 Your Perfect Checklist!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Hiking to the Okumiya might feel a bit challenging for those not accustomed to mountain walking. However, with proper preparation, you can visit safely and comfortably.<\/p>\n<p><strong>[Clothing]<\/strong>The mountain trail has <strong>steep slopes<\/strong> and <strong>chains<\/strong>, so comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing is essential.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Long sleeves and long pants<\/strong>: Protect your skin from insect bites, sunburn, and injuries.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hiking boots<\/strong>: Hiking boots with <strong>good grip<\/strong> that firmly support your ankles are ideal. While sneakers might be possible, there are many unstable sections, so hiking boots are recommended for safety.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>[What to Bring]<\/strong>Here are the essential items you absolutely must bring!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Drinking water<\/strong>: You'll sweat during the hike, so frequent hydration is important. Bring plenty.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Food<\/strong>: Energy-boosting snacks that are easy to eat (onigiri, bread, chocolate, jelly drinks, etc.) are convenient.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rain gear<\/strong>: Mountain weather can change quickly, so having a two-piece rain suit is reassuring for sudden downpours.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mobile phone<\/strong>: As a means of emergency communication, make sure it's fully charged.<\/li>\n<li><strong>GPS or map<\/strong>: The trail is maintained, but having something to confirm your current location is reassuring in case of an emergency.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bear bell<\/strong>: There are signs warning of <strong>bears<\/strong> on the trail, so it's recommended to wear a bear bell to alert bears to your presence.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Helmet<\/strong>: Especially in areas with chains and rocks, a helmet provides extra safety for head protection in case of falling rocks or a stumble.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You might also want to bring a towel, hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Okumiya_Etiquette_and_How_to_Gain_More_Blessings\"><\/span>Okumiya Etiquette and How to Gain More Blessings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Japanese shrines each have their own unique customs and etiquette for worship. The Okumiya is an especially sacred place, so please show your respect during your visit.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Be quiet<\/strong>: This is a sacred place, so refrain from speaking loudly or making noise.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Take your trash with you<\/strong>: To protect the beautiful nature, please take all your trash home.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Yield on the trail<\/strong>: Greet people you pass and yield to each other to hike safely.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Use your bear bell<\/strong>: As mentioned, there's a possibility of bears, so walk while ringing your bear bell.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To receive more blessings, it's recommended to arrive <strong>early in the morning<\/strong> and take your time with your visit. If you can arrive around 10:00 AM and allow for a <strong>4-hour free time<\/strong>, you can enjoy the hike without rushing and deeply feel the sacred energy at the Okumiya.<\/p>\n<p>The Okumiya is a place where you can directly feel the energy of nature. Take a deep breath and pay attention to the air, sounds, and smells around you. You'll surely experience a special sensation unlike anything you encounter in your daily life.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Explore_Nearby_Spots_Around_the_Okumiya_to_Fully_Enjoy_Chichibus_Charm\"><\/span>Explore Nearby Spots Around the Okumiya to Fully Enjoy Chichibu's Charm!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before and after your visit to the Okumiya, there are many enchanting spots within the Mitsumine Shrine grounds and the surrounding area. Since you've come all the way to Chichibu, be sure to stop by and experience Japan's culture and nature even more deeply.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Yo-haijo (Remote Worship Hall)<\/strong>: As mentioned, this is a place where you can remotely worship the Okumiya. The view of the Chichibu mountains from here is truly spectacular. The <strong>sea of clouds<\/strong> in the early morning is breathtakingly beautiful.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Okariya Shrine<\/strong>: Located along the approach path deeper into Mitsumine Shrine's grounds, this shrine enshrines <strong>wolves<\/strong>. It's a place where you can feel the history of wolf worship.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kuninotokotachi Shrine and Yamato Takeru Shrine<\/strong>: Many smaller auxiliary shrines are scattered around the main shrine building. Pay your respects to each deity and delve into the profound depths of Japanese Shintoism.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ryobu Torii<\/strong>: This torii gate is located along the hiking trail. It marks a sacred boundary, making you feel that the path to the Okumiya truly begins here.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Chichibunomiya Mountain Climbing Monument<\/strong>: At the summit of the Okumiya, there is a stone monument commemorating Prince Chichibunomiya's ascent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By visiting these spots, you can gain a deeper understanding of Mitsumine Shrine's history and beliefs, as well as Chichibu's rich natural environment.<\/p>\n<p>Mitsumine Shrine is located within the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, and its wonderful natural environment is another major attraction. Feel nature with all five senses \u2013 the plants you see along the hiking trail, the sounds of birds you hear.<\/p>\n<p>You'll undoubtedly be moved by the depth of Japan, thinking, \"Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya is truly a special place. Japan still has so many unknown charms!\"<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, Mitsumine Shrine has other intriguing legends and cultural aspects. For example, the \"dragon carving\" seen on the grounds or the \"white ofuda (amulet)\" distributed on the first day of each month. The more you learn, the more profound its charm becomes. For more details on these, please refer to [Internal link: History and Legends of Mitsumine Shrine].<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_Experience_a_Memorable_Spiritual_Journey_at_Chichibu_Mitsumine_Shrines_Okumiya\"><\/span>Conclusion: Experience a Memorable Spiritual Journey at Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This time, we've thoroughly introduced Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya, covering its history, mysticism, and tips for visiting.<\/p>\n<p>The Okumiya, founded in <strong>Kanpo 1 (1741)<\/strong> at the summit of <strong>Mt. Myohogatake (elevation 1,329m)<\/strong>, is truly a \"sanctuary in the sky.\" It requires a hike of approximately <strong>1.5 to 2.5 hours<\/strong> southeast from the main shrine and can only be visited for a limited period from <strong>May 3rd (mountain opening) to October 9th (mountain closing)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>While the journey is not easy, overcoming the <strong>chains<\/strong> and <strong>steep stone steps<\/strong> on the well-maintained trail to reach the summit will reward you with an indescribably moving experience and a soul-cleansing view. In this place, where the worship of the married gods <strong>Izanagi-no-Mikoto<\/strong> and <strong>Izanami-no-Mikoto<\/strong>, and their divine messenger, the <strong>wolf (Oguchi Makami)<\/strong>, breathes, you will surely feel the depth of Japan's ancient nature worship firsthand.<\/p>\n<p>With appropriate clothing, belongings, and good manners, please make sure to visit this unique place. You'll undoubtedly rediscover that what is commonplace in Japan is a truly special experience found nowhere else in the world. How about embarking on a memorable spiritual journey at Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine's Okumiya to heal your daily fatigue and gain new vitality?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Japan is full of places that make you forget the hustle and bustle of city life and cleanse your soul. Among them, one place truly stuns international visitors with its mysterious atmosphere, making them ask, \"Is this really Japan?\" We're talking about the Okumiya (inner shrine) of Mitsumine Shrine in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture. This article [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lightning_design_setting":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-162","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-dailylifeinjapan"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Discover the Mystical Mitsumine Shrine Okumiya: A Journey to a Sacred Power Spot! - Why, Japan? 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