Omi Shrine — Karuta Card Game Holy Site

Omi Shrine (近江神宮) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Tenji (626–672 CE), who reigned during Japan's adoption of Chinese calendar and administrative systems. The shrine's grand architecture (built 1940) features wide stone staircases, vermillion buildings, and forested grounds. While historically significant, Omi Shrine gained modern fame as the 'karuta holy site' — karuta (かるた) is a competitive card game based on classical poetry, and national championships are held here annually.

The shrine houses the Tokei-kan Horological Museum displaying Japan's timekeeping history — water clocks, sundials, and mechanical clocks. Emperor Tenji is credited with introducing Japan's first water clock in 671 CE, making him patron of timekeepers. The clock collection is unexpectedly fascinating for history and engineering enthusiasts.