How would you feel walking a path where mountain worship began? Welcome to Hiraoka Shrine Kamitsudake. It stands adjacent to Hiraoka Park. This is the origin of Hiraoka Shrine.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine ancient rituals. Picture people honoring spirits on Kamitsudake. Hiraoka Shrine’s story starts with mountain worship on this sacred peak.
Hiraoka Shrine is in eastern Osaka Prefecture. It is nestled on a western ridge of the Ikoma Mountains. This ancient shrine reveres Amenokoyane no Mikoto. It also honors Himesgami.
Did you know Hiraoka Shrine is also called Moto Kasuga? This is because Nara’s Kasuga Taisha was created using Hiraoka’s deity. The deity’s spirit was divided. It was then enshrined at Kasuga Taisha.
The main hall was rebuilt recently. The renovation completed in September 2020. It brought new life to this sacred space.
Look around at the votive tablets. Notice the artwork. Many depict horses. A sign points to the Kamitsudake hiking course. It leads to the place where Hiraoka Shrine was founded.
Imagine climbing to Kamitsudake Main Shrine. It used to be forbidden. Now, a stone monument marks the spot. A stone shrine was erected in 1993. Take a moment to breathe in the holy atmosphere.
Friend Masahero often posts about Kamitsudake. You might recognize it. Let us begin our ascent from Hiraoka Shrine’s main hall.
Be warned. The mountain path is tough. It can feel hard on the heart. I do not do regular training. I am wearing street clothes today. The coat is not ideal for hiking.
After about thirty minutes we arrive at the Hiraoka Observation Platform. From here we walked to Kamitsudake Main Shrine.
The view from the platform spans Osaka Plain. On a clear day you can see Awaji Island. You might spot Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.
Once at Kamitsudake, feel the sacred air. Now you know more about Hiraoka Shrine Kamitsudake. Its history is long. Its mountain is holy. Its views are stunning.