Erected in the year 708, the Sekiyama shrine is regarded as the center of Mt. Myoko and the birthplace of the area’s long and rich culture. Its main building and kuden (altar case) are registered as nationally designated cultural properties, as is the bronze bodhisattva statue which sits inside the kuden altar. This particular statue is believed to be one of the oldest Buddhas brought from Baekje (one of Korea’s three ancient kingdoms) during the sixth and seventh centuries. The current building you see today was constructed at the end of the Edo era.
Every July, this neighborhood hosts the annual Himatsuri festival, which celebrates over 1,300 years of history with the entire community. There are various performances and a beautiful mikoshi (portable shrine) is paraded through the area.