Hiraoka Shrine & Sacred Forest, Higashiosaka, Osaka

Live Ancient Shinto Sanctuary Stream | Hiraoka Shrine Sacred Precinct, Higashiosaka, Osaka, Japan. Perched gracefully against the emerald slopes of Mount Ikoma, Hiraoka Shrine is the revered Ichinomiya (First Shrine) of ancient Kawachi Province. Predating even Nara's celebrated Kasuga Grand Shrine—which enshrines deities transferred from this sacred mountain redoubt—the shrine grounds are cloaked in towering millennium-old cedars, pristine natural plum groves blooming with fragrant blossoms in early spring, and vibrant autumn foliage. The pilgrimage approach leading down into the lively town of Higashiosaka is renowned for comforting retro food culture. Stop by Ishikiri Osenbei to munch on handmade stone-grilled soy crackers, visit local bakery Narutoya to sink your teeth into East Osaka's award-winning crispy curry pan stuffed with braised wagyu beef and molten curry, and warm your spirits with steaming sweet amazake fermented rice drink at historic teahouse Hiraoka Chaya. ✦ Must-Visit Highlights: ▸ Ancient Ichinomiya Shinto Sanctuary of Kawachi: Pray at the venerated progenitor shrine of Nara's Kasuga Grand Shrine nestled on Mount Ikoma. ▸ Fragrant Spring Plum Grove & Ancient Cedars: Wander tranquil stone lantern pathways surrounded by centuries-old trees and blooming plum trees. ▸ Award-Winning Crispy Wagyu Curry Pan & Amazake: Savor Higashiosaka's celebrated fried curry bread and soothing sweet amazake along the pilgrimage road.