Isonokami Jingu Shrine

Isonokami Jingū is a shrine in Furu-cho, Tenri City, Nara Prefecture, enshrined on a hill on the northwestern slope of Mount Furu (266 m). It appears in Japan’s oldest book, the "Kojiki," as a proper shrine name, and is said to be one of Japan’s oldest shrines, with a long and profound history. Since ancient times it has been worshipped as a guardian deity for longevity and good health, recovery from illness, protection from misfortune, the bringing of good fortune, and the fulfillment of all wishes. The worship hall (haiden) in the precincts is considered the oldest surviving example of its kind in Japan, and together with the worship hall of the subsidiary Izumo Takeo Shrine—an important remnant of Uchiyama Eikyū-ji—it is designated a National Treasure. Other valuable structures include the romon gate, believed to have been built in 1318 by the 96th Emperor Go-Daigo, which is designated an Important Cultural Property. It is an irresistible place for history lovers. For access, take the Kintetsu Nara Line from "Osaka-Namba" toward Nara (about 35 minutes), transfer at Yamato-Saidaiji, take the line toward Tenri (about 20 minutes), and get off at Tenri Station. From Tenri Station, it is about a 30-minute walk or about 10 minutes by taxi. Alternatively, take a Nara Kotsu bus bound for Chishawara, get off at "Isonokami Jingū-mae," and walk about 5 minutes to the shrine.