Located in Yawata City, Kyoto Prefecture, Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine is a venerable shrine that is considered one of Japan's three major Hachimangu shrines, along with Usa Jingu Shrine and Hakozakigu Shrine. Since its founding in 859 during the reign of Emperor Seiwa, it has been deeply revered by the Imperial family and has been deeply connected to Japanese history. The shrine grounds, which spread across the summit of Mt. Otokoyama, are surrounded by abundant nature and exude a solemn atmosphere.

The main hall is constructed in the rare Hachiman-zukuri style, with two buildings, the inner and outer halls, lined up front and back. Hachiman-zukuri is a style commonly seen in shrines dedicated to the god Hachiman, and Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine's main hall is the largest and oldest surviving example of this style.

The tower gate, rebuilt during the Edo period, is striking in its vibrant vermilion color. The corridor, also rebuilt during the Edo period, is approximately 100 meters long and connects the main hall and tower gate. The Treasure Hall, built during the Meiji period, displays the treasures of Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine.

Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine is said to offer various blessings, including protection from evil, safety for the home, and business prosperity, and is bustling with worshippers throughout the year. It is also known as a power spot, making it a popular tourist destination.

The Okumiya Shrine at the summit of Mt. Hachiman is particularly popular as a power spot.

To visit Mt. Otoko, you can easily take the Otokoyama Cable Car. From the summit, you can enjoy magnificent views of Kyoto city and the confluence of the Kizugawa, Ujigawa, and Katsuragawa rivers.

[Useful Tips]

There are three free parking lots for worshippers at the summit. Parking lot 1, 2, and 3 are available. Parking lot 1 is the farthest, but the distance is not much different. However, please note that parking is prohibited during the first three days of the New Year.
If you choose to take the cable car instead of using the parking lot at the summit, there are several paid parking lots at the base of the mountain, as well as the Yahata Municipal Parking Lot. Parking here is usually reasonably priced at 100 yen per hour, but be aware that the price rises during New Year's visits to the shrine.
If you walk up the approach to the shrine instead of using the cable car, the route from the first torii gate at the base of the mountain (in front of Tonmiya) to the main shrine is about 1.2 km long, and takes about 30 to 40 minutes.