Mount Ōyama, Sacred mountain in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Mount Ōyama rises to 1252 meters and consists of volcanic rock that shapes the form of the peak and offers views across Sagami Bay toward the surrounding ranges. The steep slopes lead upward through several levels where shrine buildings and rest areas connect by stone staircases and a short cable car section.
The site has served as a sacred place for more than two thousand years, with the Oyama-Afuri shrine built on its slope during early periods. During the Edo era, pilgrims traveled here from the growing city of Edo to pray for rain and good harvests, cementing the connection between the location and agriculture.
The Oyama-Afuri-jinja Shrine complex includes multiple spiritual buildings where visitors throw ceramic plates from cliffs in a tradition called kawarake nage.
From Isehara Station, a bus runs to the cable car base station, where the ride shortens part of the climb while the rest continues on foot along stone paths. The upper section involves open staircases, so sturdy shoes and some stamina help with the steep ascent.
Along the Koma-sando, an old stone stairway, shops line the path offering tofu dishes made from spring water sourced in the Tanzawa range, known for its soft taste. At the upper shrine, visitors throw ceramic plates called kawarake from the cliff, with the belief that a long flight brings good fortune.
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