Koube-no-Miya Yomou Shrine

Koube-no-Miya Yomou Shrine, located in Taiki Town, Watarai District, Mie Prefecture, is a rare shrine in Japan dedicated to a guardian deity of the head, affectionately known as the "shrine of the head." Its enshrined deity is Karahashi Chujo Mitsumori-kyo, regarded as a great god of wisdom. Worshippers come from across the country praying for academic success and exam passes, as well as for the health of everything "above the neck," such as relief from headaches and prevention of dementia.

Highlights

- Guardian Deity of the Head: Many exam takers and their families, and those wishing for wisdom, come to worship. Its rare blessings, said to be the only ones of their kind in Japan, are its appeal. - Water of Wisdom: A sacred spring called the "water of the head" wells up in the grounds, said to grant wisdom, and you can draw the water. - Head-Related Prayers: It draws the faith of people making wishes related to the head and praying for health and long life.

Enjoying the Seasons

A quiet shrine surrounded by mountain nature, where the fresh greenery of spring and the colorful foliage of autumn shine beautifully. From the exam season of winter into spring, worshippers praying for exam success increase. Its appeal is that you can worship calmly amid rich nature, listening to the murmur of the river.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 3314-2 Ouchiyama, Taiki Town, Watarai District, Mie Prefecture - Access: About a 20-minute walk from Ouchiyama Station on the JR Kisei Main Line. By car, about 5 minutes from the Kisei-Ouchiyama Interchange on the Kisei Expressway. - Hours: Grounds open freely (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

This is a perfect shrine for those facing exams or qualification tests, and for those wishing for the health of their head. Do not forget to draw the water of wisdom. Touring it together with nearby shrines and temples such as Takihara-no-Miya makes for a fulfilling day of cleansing the mind and wisdom.