Standing majestically on Omishima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, Oyamazumi Shrine serves as the head shrine of approximately 10,000 Yamazumi and Mishima shrines throughout Japan. With a history spanning over 1,400 years since its founding in 594 CE during Emperor Suiko’s reign, this venerable sanctuary bears the distinguished title of “Nihon Sokoku Chinshu” (Guardian Deity of All Japan), having received profound reverence from the imperial court since ancient times.
The principal deity, Oyamazumi-no-Kami (the Great Mountain Spirit), is the elder brother of Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess, and has been worshipped as the god of mountains, seas, and warfare. The shrine’s treasure hall houses an astounding collection of national treasure and important cultural property armor and weapons—approximately 80% of all nationally designated treasure-class military equipment in Japan is preserved here. Legendary warriors including Minamoto no Yoritomo, Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and Kono Michinobu came here to pray for victory in battle, dedicating their armor and weapons to the shrine.
Upon entering the sacred grounds, visitors are immediately struck by the presence of the Great Camphor Tree, said to be approximately 2,600 years old. This majestic giant, with a trunk circumference of 11 meters and height of about 16 meters, radiates an awe-inspiring aura. Touching it is believed to bestow blessings of longevity. Enveloped in sea breezes and verdant greenery, this divine sanctuary quietly soothes the hearts of all who visit.
Oyamazumi Shrine’s founding dates to 594 CE during Emperor Suiko’s reign, when the deity Oyamazumi-no-Kami was enshrined on Omishima Island. The principal deity is the child of Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, and as the elder brother of Amaterasu, holds an exceptionally high rank among the gods.
During the Nara period, the shrine received the title “Nihon Sokoku Chinshu” (Guardian Deity of All Japan) from the imperial court and has been venerated as the ichinomiya (first shrine) of Iyo Province. It was listed as a major shrine (myojin taisha) in the Engishiki Jinmyocho compiled during the Heian period, attesting to its prestigious status.
From the medieval period onward, faith in the shrine as a deity of war intensified, with many warlords including the Minamoto and Taira clans visiting to pray for military victory. Minamoto no Yoritomo famously dedicated sacred treasures before raising his forces in Izu, while Minamoto no Yoshitsune reportedly paid respects before the Battle of Yashima. During the Kamakura period, the shrine became the guardian deity of the Kono naval forces, gathering worship as the protector of maritime traffic across the strategically important Seto Inland Sea.
Architecture and Natural Features
Oyamazumi Shrine’s buildings center on the main hall built in the sangensha-nagare-zukuri style, with the worship hall, sacred gate, and corridors arranged in orderly fashion. The current main hall, rebuilt in 1602, is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The hinoki bark roof and vermilion-painted pillars create a beautiful contrast with the surrounding greenery.
The most impressive feature of the grounds is the Great Camphor Tree, designated a natural monument. Approximately 2,600 years old with a trunk circumference of 11 meters and height of about 16 meters, this giant welcomes worshippers with breathtaking presence. A small shrine at its base has become popular as a power spot for longevity and health.
The grounds contain 38 giant camphor trees, each several hundred to over a thousand years old. The entire shrine is wrapped in a camphor forest, filled with purified air. The “Ochi-no-Mikoto Otaue no Kusu” (Camphor Planted by Prince Ochi) is said to be approximately 2,600 years old and is revered as a sacred tree second only to the Great Camphor.
What Makes This Spot Special
Oyamazumi Shrine’s greatest distinction is its collection of armor and weapons designated as national treasures and important cultural properties. The adjacent “Oyamazumi Shrine Treasure Hall” houses approximately 600 pieces of military equipment, including 8 national treasures and 76 important cultural properties. The fact that approximately 80% of all nationally designated treasure-class military equipment in Japan is gathered here speaks to how deeply this shrine was revered by warriors.
Particularly famous are the “Akaito Odoshi Yoroi” (Red-Laced Armor), said to have been dedicated by Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and the “Murasakiaya Odoshi Yoroi” (Purple Twill-Laced Armor) dedicated by Prince Morinaga—both designated national treasures. These armors are in excellent preservation condition, allowing visitors to witness craftsmanship from 800 years ago up close.
Additionally, Oyamazumi Shrine is located near the center of the Shimanami Kaido cycling route and is known as a sacred place for cyclists. A stone monument reading “Sacred Ground for Cyclists” stands on the grounds, and many visitors arrive by bicycle.
Spiritual Benefits and Effects
Known Spiritual Benefits
The principal deity Oyamazumi-no-Kami, as the “God of Mountains,” “God of the Sea,” and “God of War,” is said to bestow a wide range of blessings.
Victory and Success: Given the history of warriors visiting to pray for military victory, the shrine is believed to offer powerful blessings for all competitive endeavors. Popular among those facing examinations, job hunting, or athletic competitions.
Maritime and Traffic Safety: As the guardian deity of the Seto Inland Sea, the shrine has protected sea travelers throughout history. Today it is worshipped for traffic safety in general.
Longevity and Health: Touching the 2,600-year-old Great Camphor Tree is said to bestow blessings of longevity, attracting an endless stream of visitors praying for good health.
Business Prosperity: As a deity governing both mountains and seas, the shrine is believed to bring prosperity to all industries.
The Unique Energy of This Site
Oyamazumi Shrine is said to be filled with energy that enhances “decision-making ability” and “capacity for action.” As the history of warriors praying before battle suggests, visiting when facing important decisions or embarking on new challenges is said to provide a sense of being supported and encouraged.
The area around the Great Camphor Tree is considered particularly strong in “purification” energy, believed to clear away mental confusion and doubt, granting the power to move forward with clarity.
Visitor Testimonials
“I visited when I had decided to change careers. When I placed my hand on the Great Camphor and prayed, my hesitation mysteriously vanished, and I became confident about succeeding in my new workplace. I still visit once a year to express my gratitude.” (Man in his 40s, Hiroshima)
“Our family visited before a sports competition. Seeing the actual armor in the treasure hall, I felt the warriors’ determination to win, and it inspired me to do my best.” (Woman in her 20s, Ehime)
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March–May)
Late March to early April, when the shrine’s cherry blossoms reach full bloom, is especially recommended. Approximately 40 Somei Yoshino cherry trees color the grounds, creating a spectacular scene alongside the Great Camphor. Comfortable temperatures of 15-22°C (59-72°F) make this ideal for combining with Shimanami Kaido cycling. The Spring Grand Festival on April 22nd features mikoshi processions and lion dances. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Summer (June–August)
Mid-June to early July is the rainy season, but the green of the camphor trees glistening in rain is beautiful, and fewer visitors allow for peaceful worship. July and August bring temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), but the camphor forest provides shade that makes it surprisingly cool. The Kangensai Festival in August features gagaku court music performances. Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Autumn (September–November)
October to November offers the most pleasant temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F). While autumn colors are limited, the contrast between the evergreen camphor trees and autumn sky is beautiful. The Autumn Grand Festival on November 3rd is the year’s most festive day, featuring yabusame (mounted archery) ceremonies. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Winter (December–February)
Thanks to the mild Seto Inland Sea climate, many days remain relatively comfortable even in winter. Temperatures around 5-10°C (41-50°F) require warm clothing but are manageable. Fewer visitors allow for worship in peaceful silence. January 1st-3rd brings approximately 100,000 New Year’s worshippers. Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Best Times of Day
Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Few visitors, allowing you to enjoy the Great Camphor bathed in morning light to yourself. Worship in the purified morning air is exceptional.
Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Recommended for visiting when the treasure hall opens (8:30 AM). Allows for unhurried viewing.
Late Afternoon (4:00-5:00 PM): The shrine buildings and camphor forest illuminated by western light are beautiful, making this an ideal time for photography.
Visitor’s Guide
Basic Worship Etiquette
1. First Torii Gate: Bow slightly before passing through. Walk along the sides of the approach—the center is the gods’ pathway.
2. Temizuya (Purification Fountain):
– Hold the ladle in your right hand and rinse your left hand
– Transfer to your left hand and rinse your right hand
– Return to your right hand, pour water into your cupped left palm, and rinse your mouth
– Finally, tilt the ladle vertically to rinse the handle
3. Worship at the Main Hall:
– Quietly offer your monetary offering
– Ring the bell
– Bow twice, clap twice, bow once (nihai-nihakushu-ichihai)
– Convey your gratitude and wishes silently
Highlights and Recommended Route
Suggested Route (Approximately 90 minutes)
1. First Torii Gate & Approach (5 min): Walk along the stone-paved path
2. Somon Gate (3 min): Important Cultural Property from the Edo period
3. Temizuya (3 min): Purify body and mind
4. Sacred Gate & Corridor (5 min): Admire the magnificent architecture
5. Worship Hall & Main Hall (10 min): Pay respects to the principal deity
6. Great Camphor Tree (10 min): Touch the trunk and pray for longevity
7. Ochi-no-Mikoto Otaue no Kusu (5 min): The other sacred tree
8. Distant Worship Point for Inner Shrine (5 min): Worship the sacred mountain
9. Treasure Hall (30 min): View the national treasure armor
10. Amulet Office (10 min): Receive goshuin and charms
Goshuin and Amulet Information
Goshuin (Shrine Seal):
Fee: ¥300
Hours: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
Original goshuin book (¥1,500) is also popular
Popular Amulets:
Victory Charm (¥800): For all competitive endeavors
Longevity Charm (¥800): Blessings of the Great Camphor
Traffic Safety Charm (¥500): For maritime and road safety
Cyclist Charm (¥800): Shimanami Kaido exclusive
Dress Code and Items to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes (grounds have many gravel paths)
Parasol/hat and water essential in summer
Light jacket useful as the treasure hall is air-conditioned
Camera (many photo spots)
Basic Information
Access
Address: 3327 Miyaura, Omishima-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture
By Car:
10 minutes from Shimanami Kaido Omishima IC
40 minutes from Imabari IC
50 minutes from Onomichi IC
Public Transportation:
60 minutes by bus from JR Imabari Station to Omishima, get off at “Oyamazumi Jinja-mae”
90 minutes by Shimanami Liner from JR Fukuyama Station
Parking: Free parking available (approximately 50 spaces); Fuji Park parking (approximately 200 spaces) also available
Visiting Information
Hours: Grounds open freely (Treasure Hall: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM)
Closed: None (Treasure Hall open year-round)
Admission: Grounds free; Treasure Hall ¥1,000 (high school ¥800, elementary/junior high ¥400)
Suggested Duration: 60-90 minutes
Contact
Phone: 0897-82-0032
Official Website: https://oomishimagu.jp/
Area Information
Nearby Attractions
Hakata Salt Industry Omishima Factory (10 min by car)
Factory for “Hakata no Shio” salt. Free factory tours available with salt tasting and souvenir purchases. Tour takes approximately 30 minutes.
Tatara Shimanami Park (15 min by car)
Premier scenic spot on the Shimanami Kaido with close-up views of Tatara Bridge. Popular rest stop for cyclists with rental bicycle station available.
Murakami Kaizoku Museum (20 min by car)
Museum about the Murakami naval clan who controlled the Seto Inland Sea during the Warring States period. Admission ¥310.
Recommended Restaurants
Tairyo (3-min walk from shrine)
Famous for seafood bowls using local fish
Specialties: Kaisendon (¥1,500), Tai-meshi Set (¥1,800)
Hours: 11:00 AM-2:00 PM, 5:00-8:00 PM
Closed: Wednesdays
Michi-no-Eki Shimanami-no-Eki Mishima (5 min by car)
Hakata no Shio: Limited packaging from Omishima factory
Omishima Mikan: In season November-February
Victory Charm: Popular as a good luck item for competitions
Model Itineraries
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
10:00 AM Oyamazumi Shrine worship & Treasure Hall visit
12:00 PM Seafood bowl lunch at Tairyo
1:00 PM Souvenir shopping at Michi-no-Eki
1:30 PM Rest at Tatara Shimanami Park
2:00 PM Depart
Full-Day Course (Approximately 7 hours)
9:00 AM Oyamazumi Shrine worship
10:30 AM Leisurely Treasure Hall visit
12:00 PM Lunch at Tairyo
1:30 PM Hakata Salt factory tour
2:30 PM Murakami Kaizoku Museum
4:00 PM Break at Omishima Brewery
5:00 PM Evening return visit to shrine
6:00 PM Depart
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
“Moved by the Treasury of National Treasures” (Man in his 50s, Tokyo)
“As a history enthusiast, this was a shrine I always wanted to visit. The national treasure armor collection in the treasure hall was overwhelming. Seeing armor I had only seen in textbooks right before my eyes left me speechless. The presence of the Great Camphor was also magnificent—I truly felt the passage of 2,600 years.”
“Highlight of Shimanami Kaido Cycling” (Woman in her 30s, Osaka)
“I visited by bicycle. I took a commemorative photo at the Cyclists’ Sacred Ground monument and rested in the grounds. I was healed by the sea breeze and the fragrance of the camphor trees. They even have a cyclist-specific charm, which I purchased as a travel memento.”
“Worship in Profound Silence” (Woman in her 60s, Hiroshima)
“I visited early on a weekday morning. I was the only visitor and could pray quietly before the Great Camphor. In the sacred space where only birdsong echoed through the dappled sunlight, I was moved that such a place exists in Japan.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the parking lot get crowded?
A: Weekdays are mostly empty. Weekends, holidays, and festival days can be crowded, so using Fuji Park parking (5-minute walk to shrine) is recommended.
Q: How much time does the Treasure Hall require?
A: A thorough visit takes over an hour. Even if time is limited, the national treasure armor is a must-see. Allow at least 30 minutes.
Q: Is wheelchair access available?
A: The grounds have many gravel paths, but there is a paved route to near the main hall. Contact the shrine office in advance for assistance.
Q: Tips for combining with Shimanami Kaido cycling?
A: The shrine is located near the center of Omishima Island. Starting from Imabari, it’s about 35km—perfect as a turnaround point or rest stop.
Summary
Oyamazumi Shrine is Ehime Prefecture’s premier power spot with over 1,400 years of history. As the head shrine of approximately 10,000 Yamazumi and Mishima shrines nationwide, it boasts the prestige and history befitting its title of “Guardian Deity of All Japan.”
The collection of national treasure and important cultural property armor and weapons is unparalleled in Japan. The history of Minamoto no Yoshitsune and other legendary warriors visiting to pray for victory makes this shrine a major attraction for those seeking to enhance their competitive fortune. The 2,600-year-old Great Camphor Tree, said to bestow longevity blessings to those who touch it, overwhelms visitors with its majestic presence.
Its location near the center of the Shimanami Kaido makes access convenient, with many visitors stopping by during cycling trips to enjoy the combination of Seto Inland Sea scenery. The surrounding area offers fresh seafood restaurants and spots for enjoying citrus-based sweets.
When facing a major decision, embarking on a new challenge, or simply wishing to purify your heart—the sacred atmosphere of Oyamazumi Shrine will gently support you from behind. Experience a journey touching 1,400 years of history, enveloped in the gentle breezes of the Seto Inland Sea and the fragrance of camphor trees.
—
💡 Want to discover the power spot that’s right for you?
Beyond this location, Japan is home to countless power spots. To find the one most suited to you, try our free compatibility assessment (takes just 3 minutes).
→ [Take the Free En Profile Assessment](https://enguide.info)
—
*Information in this article is current as of December 2025. Please verify the latest details via the official website before visiting.*
