Niukawakami Shrine Kami-sha (Upper Shrine)

ニウカワカミジンジャカミシャ

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The "Grand Head Shrine of Dragon Gods" nestled at the source of water. This ancient shrine, with a history of approximately 1300 years, worships Takaokami-no-kami, the deity of rain. Its greatest charm is the breathtaking panoramic view from the "Shrine in the Sky."

Shrines and Temples
World Heritage
Scenic Views

HighlightsThe "Grand Head Shrine of Dragon Gods" nestled at the source of water
Spectacular view from the "Shrine in the Sky" overlooking Otaki Dam Lake
An ancient shrine with 1300 years of history, known for prayers for rain and stopping rain
Unique omikuji (fortune slips) where you can get a "Dragon God's Orb"
Miyanohira Ruins, ritual sites dating back to the Jomon period

Basic Information

Address: 869-1 Sako, Kawakami Village, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Nara

Access: From Yamato-Kamiichi Station on the Kintetsu Yoshino Line, take a Nara Kotsu bus (bound for Yumori Onsen Suginoyu) and get off at the final stop, "Yumori Onsen Suginoyu." If visiting by car, it's immediately next to Roadside Station "Suginoyu Kawakami." During festivals or special events, a free shuttle bus may be available from the Roadside Station. There are three parking lots (P1 to P3). Please note that the road from P2 to P1 is extremely narrow, requiring a multi-point turn even for small cars. Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Cld.Days: Open daily all year round

INFO: During festival seasons, parking can get very crowded, so taking the free shuttle bus from Roadside Station "Suginoyu Kawakami" is highly recommended. Please note that the roads leading to Parking Lots 1 and 2 are narrow, so drive with extreme caution. As the enshrined deity is Takaokami-no-Kami, the god who controls rain, visiting on a rainy day can offer a uniquely profound experience, allowing you to connect with the deity in a special way. There's also a unique service: if you draw the "Kyo" (unlucky) fortune slip in the omikuji (fortune paper), you'll be granted a "Ryujin no Tama" (Dragon God's Orb), a lucky charm. Goshuin (red seal stamps) are handwritten; you can leave your Goshuin-cho (stamp book) before your visit and pick it up, paying, on your way out.

HP: https://niu-kamisya.jp/

Overview

Niukawakami Shrine Kami-sha, located in Kawakami Village, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture, is renowned as the "Grand Head Shrine of Dragon Gods," situated at the very source of the Yoshino and Kino Rivers. This ancient and revered shrine is said to have been founded in 675 AD by Emperor Tenmu, who received a divine oracle. Its principal deity, Takaokami-no-kami, a powerful dragon god who governs water and rain, has been deeply worshipped throughout history. The shrine's divine efficacy is particularly notable for prayers for rain and stopping rain, with records showing dozens of offerings and prayers made by the imperial court from the Nara period to the Muromachi period. An imperial poem by Emperor Go-Daigo, "This village is near Niukawakami; if I pray, let the rainy season sky clear," further attests to its profound history and prestige. The current main hall was relocated in 1998, utilizing old timbers from the former Ise Grand Shrine, from its original site which was submerged due to the construction of the Otaki Dam. Archaeological excavations at the former site unearthed altar remains dating back to before the Heian period, as well as a circular stone arrangement—a ceremonial relic from the late Middle to early Late Jomon period (about 4000 years ago). These discoveries reveal that this land has been revered as a sacred place since ancient times. True to its moniker as the "Shrine in the Sky," the shrine grounds are perched on a hill with magnificent views, offering a breathtaking panorama of the dam lake and the majestic surrounding mountains. This space, enveloped by crystal-clear air and pristine water, is truly a power spot. Goshuin (shrine seals) and dragon god-themed amulets are available. There's also a unique service: if you draw a "kyo" (bad luck) omikuji (fortune slip) for a 100 yen offering, you receive a "Dragon God's Orb," a lucky charm. Visitors to this sacred site can deeply feel the ancient gratitude for water and the powerful divine blessings of the Dragon God.

Niukawakami Shrine Kami-sha (Upper Shrine)

Highlights

Basic Information

Overview

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