Kuehiko Shrine

In Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, as a branch shrine of Omiwa Shrine, Kuehiko Shrine sits on a rise at the foot of Mount Miwa. Its deity is Kuebiko no Mikoto, who appears in the Kojiki and is regarded as the deity of wisdom who knows all things in the world. Once a deity of agriculture, today, drawing on that deep wisdom, it is deeply revered for blessings of academic success, passing exams, and the granting of wisdom. Many exam takers and their families visit, and amulets of the owl, the symbol of wisdom, are popular. From the rise spreads a stunning view of Mount Miwa and the three mountains of Yamato, a refreshing power spot.

Highlights

- Prayer to the Deity of Wisdom: A sacred site for the granting of wisdom, bustling with exam takers and families praying for academic success and passing exams. - Wise Owl Amulets: Amulets and figures of the owl, the symbol of wisdom, are popular and welcomed as gifts. - View from the Rise: From the observation point in the grounds spreads a refreshing view taking in Mount Miwa and the three mountains of Yamato. - Exam Success Votive Plaques: Many plaques praying for exam success are offered, holding the earnest wishes of worshippers.

Enjoying the Seasons

From winter to early spring, the exam season, it is especially busy with worshippers praying for success. Early summer with fresh green and autumn with foliage are seasons to enjoy a refreshing visit along with the view from the rise. The view from the observation point is exceptional on clear days, so aiming for fine weather is recommended. Many visit it as part of a circuit of the foot of Mount Miwa together with Omiwa Shrine and Sai Shrine.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Miwa, Sakurai City, Nara - Access: About 20 minutes on foot from JR Miwa Station, or about 10 minutes from Omiwa Shrine - Hours: Grounds open all day (amulet office about 9:00 to 17:00) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

As it sits on a rise, the approach has slopes and stone steps, so visit in comfortable shoes. If you are praying for exam success, the wise owl amulet and the exam success votive plaque are recommended. Located in a corner of the broad grounds of Omiwa Shrine, touring it together with Omiwa Shrine and Sai Shrine lets you receive the blessings of wisdom and health at the foot of Mount Miwa all at once.