Nishiteru Shrine, a Moon Deity Sanctuary on Mount Otaki in Tokushima

Mount Otaki rises on the border between Mima city in Tokushima and Takamatsu city in Kagawa. Just below its summit, at an elevation of about nine hundred forty six meters, stands Nishiteru Shrine. Because it enshrines the moon deity Tsukuyomi as its principal deity, it is known as the sanctuary of the moon god, with the three Munakata goddesses as attendant deities, and it has long drawn faith as a god of warding off misfortune. By shrine tradition its origin lies in the moon deity, ruler of the world of night, sending the goddess Takitsuhime to Mount Otaki to watch over the Inland Sea, and in the early Heian period Kobo Daishi is said to have secluded himself here in training, making it a mountain training ground where deities and buddhas were worshipped together. Resting in the silence of the deep mountains, this shrine is quietly regarded as one of the most spiritual places in Shikoku.

Highlights

• The venerable shrine hall dedicated to the moon deity and the crisp air of the mountaintop
• The history of mountain faith blending deities and buddhas, tied to the training of Kobo Daishi
• The mountain ranges of Shikoku and the beautiful night views seen from near the summit of Mount Otaki
• Its standing as a candidate for a shrine listed in the ancient Engishiki register, with the three Munakata goddesses as attendant deities

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Nishiotani, Wakimachi, Mima city, Tokushima
• By car: A road reaches near the summit of Mount Otaki, but it is narrow and winding, so real care is needed when driving
• Access by public transport is difficult, so coming by car is the norm
• Because the elevation is high and temperatures are low, an extra layer is reassuring
• Confirm the details of worship and the shrine stamp through official or on site sources

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season: Fresh greenery from spring into early summer and autumn leaves are beautiful, and on clear days you can see far into the distance. Winter is bitterly cold, so beware of frozen roads too
• Time of day: Given the mountain driving, a visit in bright daylight is reassuring. Dusk, when the air clears, offers exceptional views, but leave time to spare for the descent
• Time needed: Allow about thirty minutes to one hour to enjoy the worship and the views, apart from the drive up and down
• Nearby real spots: The Udatsu townscape of Wakimachi at the foot, a preservation district of historic buildings, is a leading place to stop. Mount Otaki is also a base for climbing and hiking
• Budget: The visit itself involves little cost. As it lies in the mountains, prepare drinks and warm clothing in advance

A Quick Tip

You can drive up to near the summit, but the road stays narrow and winding, so drive with care. After your visit, take time to savor the view from the mountaintop and breathe the clear air of the sanctuary of the moon god deep into your chest. Touring together with the townscape of Wakimachi at the foot is also recommended.

📚 Sources

This article draws mainly on the history and worship guidance published officially or on site by Nishiteru Shrine, and the sightseeing information of Mima city and Tokushima Prefecture on Mount Otaki and the udatsu townscape of Wakimachi. It also reflects the interpretive signs in the precinct and around Mount Otaki. Worship and stamp information and mountain road conditions may change, so please confirm with the official information of Nishiteru Shrine or Mima city before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About thirty minutes to one hour to enjoy worship and the views, apart from the drive up and down.
• What to bring: An extra layer or warm clothing, as the elevation is high and temperatures low.
• How to get around: Public transport access is difficult, so coming by car is basic.
• Time of day: Given the mountain driving, a visit in bright daylight is reassuring.
• Note: A narrow, winding mountain road continues near the summit, so drive with care; beware of frozen roads in winter.

Practical Information for Your Visit

• Location: 672 Nishiotani, Wakimachi, Mima City, Tokushima Prefecture (postcode 779-3638) / The shrine stands on the summit of Mount Otaki (elevation 946 metres)
• Telephone: 0883-52-4928
• Payment: The amulet office accepts cashless payment including PayPay, Rakuten Pay, WAON and credit cards
• Annual events: The spring Daidai Kagura prayer festival is held every year on the fourth Sunday of April

* Worship hours, the opening hours of the amulet office, admission fees and parking are not officially published.

(Sources: Nishiteru Shrine, Shrine of the Moon Deity, official website; Mima City tourism site)