1.5 hour private experience
Location: Higashiosaka, Osaka
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Explore one of Japan’s oldest shrines with one of the shrine’s priests. Learn more about the ancient and unique history of Hiraoka Shrine, as well as Shinto beliefs. Then, experience worship and rituals, including a dance performed by a shrine maiden.
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (13:00 - 14:30)
Session 2 (14:00 - 15:30)
Not available on the 1st of every month and between January 1st and 15th.
Who can attend
Children must be 12+ years old.
Access
35min from Osaka Station by car.
As Old as Time Itself
Said to have been built during the Kofun era, Hiraoka Shrine has ancient origins that predate the founding of Nara’s Kasuga Grand Shrine, with which it shares enshrined deities. Around 650, it was moved to its current position at the base of sacred Mount Kamizu, having originally been situated near the mountain's peak. According to the Nihon Shoki, this shrine was built for the pacification of the land and victory in battle by the first emperor of Japan, leading it to receive considerable imperial patronage over the centuries. The principal deity enshrined here is Ame-no-Koyane-no-Mikoto, known for his role in the myth of the opening of the Heavenly Rock Cave (Ama-no-Iwato), inside which Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess, once concealed herself. He is said to have conducted the first ritual ceremony and recited the first norito (Shinto prayer), and hence is revered as the originator of sacred rites. Step into the grounds of this shrine of ancient origins and experience traditions that have endured for more than a millennium.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 3 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
