Hirose Taisha

In Kawai Town, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara Prefecture, at the near center of the Yamato Basin where many rivers meet, sits Hirose Taisha. A celebrated shrine listed in the Engishiki whose principal deity is Wakaukanome no Mikoto, the deity that governs water, it has a long history said to reach back before the common era. In the time of Emperor Tenmu, it is said that by enshrining it together with Tatsuta Taisha of the wind deity as a paired shrine, wind and water were harmonized to pray for the peace of the nation and good harvests. Known for blessings of good harvests, protection from misfortune, and protection from water disasters, and famous for the unusual Sand-Throwing Festival, it is a quiet power spot of the Nara Basin.

Highlights

- Faith in the Water Deity: Sitting where rivers meet, it is revered as the water deity for prayers of good harvests and protection from water disasters. - Sand-Throwing Festival: An unusual festival where worshippers and farmers throw sand at one another, likened to rain, to pray for a good harvest. It is a prefectural intangible folk cultural property. - Long Approach and Sacred Grove: The long, tree-surrounded approach gives off a pure and solemn atmosphere. - Pair with Tatsuta Taisha: The history of forming a pair with the wind deity of Tatsuta Taisha conveys the depth of the faith culture of Yamato.

Enjoying the Seasons

The Sand-Throwing Festival held in February is known as a lively, unusual festival that divines the years harvest, a must-see event if you visit. Spring brings fresh green and autumn brings foliage to the approach, and you can worship quietly through the seasons. It is usually calm with few tourists, recommended for those who wish to join their hands before the water deity at leisure. Touring it together with the wind deity of Tatsuta Taisha is also popular as a visit mindful of wind and water.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 99 Kawai, Kawai Town, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara - Access: About 20 minutes on foot from JR Yamatogawa Station, or about 25 minutes from Ikebe Station (Kintetsu); a car is also convenient - Hours: Grounds open all day (shrine office about 9:00 to 17:00) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

As you walk a long approach, comfortable shoes are recommended. If you visit for the February Sand-Throwing Festival, wear clothing that is fine to have sand thrown on it. Worshipping together with the wind deity of Tatsuta Taisha makes for a journey unique to Yamato, touring a pair of old shrines that govern wind and water. With few tourists, it is perfect for those who wish to savor the history and the air of the sacred precinct in quiet.