[Wakayama, Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine] The center of Kumano faith, a "sacred place of resurrection" where the gods gather

Located in Hongu-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine is one of the three Kumano shrines and the head shrine of all the Kumano shrines in Japan. Since ancient times, it has been revered as a "place of rebirth," and for over a thousand years, it has been a sacred place where many have visited in prayer for spiritual renewal.

The main deity enshrined here is Ketsumiko no Okami, a deity considered an incarnation of Amida Buddha. It is traditional to visit all three shrines, including Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha, when making a pilgrimage to Kumano.

The shrine building was once located on Oyu no Hara, an island in the Kumano River, but was washed away in a major flood in 1889. It was subsequently moved to its current location on higher ground. Even today, Japan's largest torii gate stands on the former shrine site, allowing visitors to sense the sacred atmosphere of that time.

Climbing the stone steps, the majestic shrine building emerges, its beautiful cypress bark roof and black-lacquered facade exuding a profound dignity amidst the tranquil surroundings. Surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage in fall, the shrine offers a mystical appearance with every season.

📌 Useful Information
Address: 1110 Hongu, Hongu-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture 647-1731
Access: Approximately 60 minutes by bus from JR Shingu Station, get off at the "Hongu Taisha-mae" bus stop.
Free admission to the grounds (fees apply for the Treasure Hall).
Parking: Available

This is the final destination of the Kumano Kodo, a path that is said to lead to Kumano.
A visit to Kumano Hongu Taisha will leave you feeling tranquil and purified, and you will feel as if you have been given new life.

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Post by Travel tiger | Oct 15, 2025