Mount Oiwa - Ibaraki, Japan
My goal today was to visit Oiwa Shrine and hike Mt. Oiwa (530 m) in northern Ibaraki Prefecture. I started at Mito Station, taking the JR Joban Line to Hitachi Station, then transferred to a local bus that stops near the shrine entrance, winding through small villages and forested hills along the way.
The moment I arrived, the ancient cedar and cypress trees surrounding the shrine conveyed a profound sense of reverence and history. Oiwa Shrine itself felt serene yet powerful, with a sacred aura extending all the way to the summit of Mt. Oiwa. Signs clearly stated the rules: no pets, sandals, babies, food, drink, smoking, offerings, or climbing during rain or snow. I felt fortunate that the day was only cloudy, offering a comfortable climate for the hike.
The trail began gently, with stone steps and forested paths gradually ascending the mountain. Early on, I noticed the quiet sounds of nature — birds calling, wind rustling through the trees — punctuated by occasional glimpses through the canopy. As I climbed, the incline increased slightly, and patches of ice reminded me to step carefully. Despite the cold, the experience felt invigorating, each breath of crisp mountain air clearing my mind.
Reaching the summit of Mt. Oiwa (530 m) was rewarding. The forest opened to sweeping views of the surrounding Hitachi Alps. Energized, I continued along the ridge to Mt. Takasuzu (623 m), where the mountains stretched endlessly in every direction, dotted with ancient shrines and forested valleys. The sense of isolation and connection to nature was profound, a reminder of why this area has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries.
The descent was calm and reflective. I retraced my steps, appreciating details I had missed on the way up: moss-covered stones, twisted tree roots, and small Shinto markers along the path. Missing my connecting bus by a few minutes turned into a small adventure of its own — I wandered the nearby village, soaking in the local atmosphere, and eventually found a small café to warm up with tea and snacks. The break gave me a moment to reflect on the hike — the combination of spiritual history, natural beauty, and physical challenge made the day uniquely satisfying.
History & Background
Oiwa Shrine (御岩神社) is a historically significant Shinto site in northern Ibaraki Prefecture, with a history spanning over 1,300 years. While the exact origins of the shrine are unclear, archaeological evidence suggests the area may have been a site of religious activity as far back as the Jomon Period (14,000–300 BCE). Over the centuries, the shrine has attracted pilgrims seeking spiritual guidance, protection, and blessings, and it continues to hold an important place in the local community.
The sacred domain of Oiwa Shrine extends to the summit of Mt. Oiwa, linking religion with the surrounding natural landscape. The mountain forms part of the Hitachi Alps, a cluster of modest but scenic peaks known for panoramic mountain views and seasonal natural beauty. Nearby Mt. Takasuzu (623 m) is another prominent peak in the range, offering expansive vistas that have inspired both pilgrims and hikers for centuries. This blend of historical, cultural, and natural significance makes the area a unique destination for outdoor adventure enriched with spiritual context.
Getting There
From Mito Station, take the JR Joban Line to Hitachi Station. From there, transfer to a local bus heading toward Oiwa Shrine, which stops near the entrance. The bus ride takes approximately 40–50 minutes, passing through scenic villages and forested roads. Visitors can also drive, though parking near the shrine is limited.
Once at the trailhead, the paths are clearly marked, consisting of a mix of stone steps and forest trails. Hikers should take care on icy or uneven sections, especially in winter months, and strictly follow shrine rules to preserve the sacred area.
Route Overview
Distance: 7.49 km out & back (Oiwa Shrine)
Total elevation gain: 422 m
Duration: 2 hr 8 min (with breaks 2 hr 11 min)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Peaks: Mt Oiwa 御岩山 530m, Mt Takasuzu 高鈴山 623m
Cost Breakdown
Train: Mito Station → Hitachi Station — ¥590
Bus: Hitachi Station → Oiwa Shrine — ¥610
Food: ¥990
