Nyakuichiouji jinja

The Wakaichi Oji Shrine in the center of Omachi City was founded by Prince Ninnaga during Emperor Suinin's reign. Later, it was renamed after enshrining deities from Kumano Gongen.

The spacious shrine grounds uniquely feature a three-story pagoda, a rarity among Nagano's shrines, alongside Buddhist structures like a Kannon Hall.

The three-story pagoda, a prefectural treasure, was built by the Kanbara family in the mid-Edo period, commissioned by Mokujiki Sanzō of Danzai Temple. The carvings on the first story's frog legs depict the twelve zodiac animals dressed in court attire, an unusual feature.

Upon entering the shrine grounds through the torii gate, the left side houses the Omachi Gokoku Shrine. Adjacent is Yasaka Shrine, where a portable shrine is enshrined, usually carried during festivals. Though no specific records remain, the design and coloration suggest it was built in the mid-Edo period by Omachi carpenters, the Kanbara family.

The main hall was said to be built by Morinobu Nishina in the late Muromachi period. However, significant repairs in the early Edo period incorporated many contemporary architectural styles. In 1654, the Kanbara family in Omachi conducted a near-complete restoration. The shrine's distinctive features include demon masks on the roof and extensive use of color, making it a rare and unique structure.