The view from Oyama Afuri Shrine is absolutely breathtaking. Standing on the platform, you can see all the way across Kanagawa Prefecture, with the ocean shimmering in the distance. It felt like something from a Ghibli film, like "Tenku no Torii," a shrine gate in the sky.

Main Shrine:

• The Afuri Shrine sits at the top of the Oyama Cable Car line and offers sweeping views of Kanagawa Prefecture, including Enoshima Island.

• The shrine is dedicated to a deity associated with rain and agriculture, making it a popular site for farmers praying for favorable weather.

Inner Shrine:

• The Inner Shrine is located further up the mountain, requiring an additional hike of about 60-90 minutes. This spot offers even more serene surroundings and breathtaking views.

Seasonal Beauty:

• Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom around the shrine, making it a picturesque spot for hanami (flower viewing).

• Summer: The lush greenery of the surrounding forests offers a cool escape from the city heat. However, it can still be quite hot and humid because it is less than 1000m in altitude.

• Autumn: Vibrant autumn foliage transforms the area into a colorful spectacle, attracting leaf-peepers from across Japan. Beware that there will be a lot of tourists visiting in autumn.

• Winter: Crisp air and occasional snow provide a serene atmosphere. The shrine's location makes it an ideal spot for those looking for quiet reflection.

Cultural Events:

• The shrine hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as traditional rituals for rain and New Year celebrations, which attract many visitors.

Food Stalls and Local Delicacies:

• Near the shrine, you'll find food stalls selling local specialties:

  • Oyama tofu: A must-try dish made from fresh, local soybeans.

  • Mitarashi dango: Skewered rice dumplings glazed with sweet soy sauce.

  • Kuzumochi: A traditional dessert made from arrowroot starch.

• Many shops and stalls are located along Oyama Monzen-machi, the street leading to the cable car base station.

The View

The shrine offers one of the best viewpoints in the region:

• From the main grounds, you can see the Sagami Bay, Enoshima Island, and even parts of Tokyo on a clear day.

• The sunsets here are particularly stunning, with the golden light reflecting off the ocean.

Facilities Around the Shrine

• Rest Areas: There are shaded seating areas and benches for visitors to relax and enjoy the views.

• Gift Shops: Several shops sell charms, amulets, and other traditional items. You can also find unique souvenirs related to the shrine.

• Restaurants: A small restaurant near the cable car station serves light meals, including soba and udon, perfect for refueling after a hike.