Kumano Hongu Taisha: Sacred Trails
🗺️ Scope & Locations
- Days / Dates: April 12, 2025
- Locations Covered:
- Hosshinmon-oji
- Fushiogami-oji
- Kumano Hongu Taisha
- Oyunohara (Giant Torii Gate)
📝 Thoughts & Reflections
- Deeply spiritual and surrounded by forest nature, this shrine feels like stepping into another world.
- The massive torii gate standing in the open fields of Oyunohara is an unforgettable sight.
- The Yatagarasu three-legged crow design appears on signs and souvenirs everywhere.
📸 Journal & Photos
The final stop on the Kumano Sanzan pilgrimage (following Kumano Nachi Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha) is Kumano Hongu Taisha—and honestly, it’s my favorite of the three. ✨
Located deeper in the mountains, this shrine is considered the spiritual heart of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. Surrounded by mystical nature—dense forests, peaceful rivers, and quiet mountain air—it feels like stepping into another world. The shrine itself has a unique sacred presence, with its dark wooden architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
Interestingly, Kumano Hongu Taisha was originally located at Oyunohara, a river delta nearby, but was relocated to its current higher ground after a devastating flood in the 19th century. The original site is now marked by the largest torii gate in the world, standing tall and striking in the middle of an open field. It’s such an impressive and unforgettable sight.
This shrine is also closely associated with the Yatagarasu, a mythical three-legged crow believed to be a divine guide. You’ll spot the crow motif everywhere—on signs, omamori charms, and even souvenirs. 🐦⬛
Visiting all three Kumano shrines was such a special journey. Each one has its own personality, but Kumano Hongu Taisha left the deepest impression on me before I returned to my base at Kii Katsuura. ❤️
Kumano Hongu Taisha
Oyunohara — the world’s largest torii gate
🗺️ Trip Navigation
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