Ō be-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Ō be-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Kawanishi with traditional wooden structures, curved roofs, and stone lanterns at the entrance. The grounds include a main hall, a small pavilion for hand and mouth cleansing before prayer, and a surrounding wooded area with ancient trees and stone paths.
The shrine was founded in 978 and is among the oldest sanctuaries in the region. It is closely connected to the history of the Minamoto clan, an influential samurai family, whose origins are honored at this sacred site.
The shrine is called Ō be-jinja and serves as a place where local residents regularly pray and participate in traditional ceremonies. Visitors notice small wooden plaques with written wishes hung in specific areas, and they observe people tossing coins and ringing a bell before praying.
The shrine is open to visitors year-round and is best explored on foot by taking time to notice details and walk the stone paths. Kawanishi is well connected by train and bus, and nearby shops and small cafes offer places to rest after your visit.
The shrine is also known as 'Kansai Nikko', which underscores its importance as one of western Japan's major sanctuaries. This name links it to the famous Nikko shrine in the east and reflects its historical and spiritual role in the broader region.
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