Omi Shrine — Attraction in Otsu

Omi ( Oumi ) Jingu shrine is one of the major grand shrines in entire Shiga Prefecture located in Otsu City. This shrine is easy access from Kyoto via Yamagoe Mountain Pass which runs from Shirakawa area. The shrine was established in 1940 dedicated to past Emperor Tenji of 7th century in Japan. The emperor is known as a person who carried out reform of Tenka to move the capital to Otsu during his time. It was on April 20th when the reform was complete. Therefore, a large festival is held here in celebration to commemorate this historical event. There is a board which explains the past form of this ground where the emperor once built an imperial palace. It is shown in ancient chronicle that the very first water clock in Japan was introduced during the time of emperor Tenji and its replica is placed on the ground of the shrine. There is a museum which exhibits ancient clocks invented in the past is in its precincts.

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It seems to be a little away from JR Kosai Line, but you can walk from Otsukyo Station without having to change to Keihan Electric Railway Ishiyama Saka Main Line. This is the stage of the manga karuta tournament called "Chayahayafuru", and such a tournament actually exists. The large gate in front of the main hall has a bright red color, which has an impact that can be remembered intensely. If you look at the building carefully, many wooden parts are combined in a very complex way, and you are overwhelmed by its beauty. These buildings are designated as national registered tangible cultural property, so it is understandable. As I see the cherry blossom mark when I look at the cloth hanging from the gate, I think that it is a famous cherry blossom spot here. I want to come here again when the cherry...

Omi Jingu is a shrine in a forest, which doubles as an anime pilgrimage destination. It was an iconic place in popular anime & manga Chihayafuru, which I followed religiously during my high school years.

I visited on a weekday afternoon and there were only a few people around. The building was vibrantly vermillion and displayed many karuta-related exhibits such as the Hyakunin Isshu cards. My entire visit was so serene. Strolling the lush forest, taking the famous stairs, and exploring the hall felt like retracing Chihaya's footsteps before a tournament. I could almost hear poem no. 17 being recited in my head.

They also have a karuta community hall that sells Chihayafuru merchandise. It's Omi Kangakukan on Google Maps and only a short walk from the shrine...