The Kumano Taisya Shrine - A summer festival of brightly colored wind chimes!

  • Yamagata
  • Sightseeing
Kumano-taisha, the Ise of Tohoku
Kumano Taisha Shrine, located in Miyauchi, Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is one of the three Kumano shrines in Japan, and is also known as "Ise in Tohoku," a shrine with a long history. It was rebuilt in 806, the first year of the Daido Era, by order of Emperor Heijo. The Otorii (Grand Gate) that stands at the entrance to Kumano-taisha Shrine is the highlight of the tour. The approach to the main shrine through the Otorii is a straight, unobstructed path. From there, a mysterious space unfolds into the Kumano-taisha Shrine.
The Otorii (Grand Gate) of Kumano-taisha Shrine

Beautiful sound of bells to forget the heat

At Kumano-taisha Shrine in summer, visitors are welcomed by many wind chimes as they climb the stone steps. At Kumano Taisha, wind chimes are displayed from June to September. Even in the heat of summer, the sound of the wind chimes swaying in the wind seems to ease the heat.
These wind chimes are called "Kaze no Oto Fuurin" and can be dedicated.
It is enshrined in the precincts of the temple along with your own wish. As a proof of dedication, a limited edition red seal for "Kaze no Oto-Furin" is also available. Why not make a wish on the wind chime that shakes in the hot summer and let your own thoughts and feelings be carried by the sound of the wind?
Colorful wind chimes fluttering in the wind

Worship hall representing Japan

The worship hall of Kumano Taisha Shrine uses a thatched roof, an architectural style unique to Yamagata Prefecture, and is said to be the oldest thatched-roof building in the prefecture. Before visiting other shrines, we will pay a thorough visit here.
The worship hall, overwhelmed by its presence

Will your wish come true with three rabbits? Let's find the three rabbits!

After visiting the hall of worship, go around to the back of the main shrine from the left side. Looking up, you will see a variety of elaborate carvings. Hidden among them is a rabbit sculpture.
It is not known when it was first discovered, but it is said that a person who found three rabbits among the carvings had his or her love and wishes fulfilled. It is notoriously difficult to find the third rabbit, although up to two can be found. However, be careful not to tell people the location of the last rabbit or ask them about it, or your wish will not be granted.
In addition, at the center of Kumano Taisha is a shrine dedicated to two husband-and-wife deities, Izanakinomikoto and Izanaminomikoto. The shrine is also known as the god of marriage, as it is the first shrine in Japan where a couple was united in marriage. The Kumano Taisha Shrine also enshrines 30 other deities with various benefits. You may face yourself and meet the god you need now.
Where is the rabbit hiding?

Gingko trees that have moved with the times

At the entrance to Kumano Taisha, there is a large gingko tree that is over 900 years old. It is said that Minamoto no Yoshie made a vow of victory to this gingko tree. The local people feel the coming of winter every year as the yellow-colored leaves of the gingko tree dance down.
On several days in November, the gingko tree is scheduled to be lit up in conjunction with a nighttime visit to the temple grounds, so that visitors can enjoy a different kind of gingko tree in the night.
Gingko trees in beautiful contrast with the background

A moment after visiting the shrine

photo:isaonegishi
How about one as a souvenir?

After visiting the shrine, be sure to go to the awarding office to see the good luck charms and red seals. There are many cute wish charms at Kumano Taisha. There is the "Yuiwa-hi-Usagi" (rabbit motif) and "Kanou-mamori" (protection that will come true), both of which were mentioned earlier, as well as some red seals decorated with rabbits.
In addition, there is a bell charm called "Kaze no Oto Mamori" (sound of wind protection), which allows you to enjoy the taste of the wind not only with your eyes but also with your ears. Why not take home a wish-fulfilling amulet for your family, loved ones, and yourself?

Why not visit Kumano Taisha Shrine, which has been lighting up the town for nearly 1,000 years?

Click here for information on Kumano-taisha Shrine (website)

Let's combine your favorite train and lodging to save money!

You can make your own original trip!

The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to freely select a train and accommodations and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.

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For reservations for train + accommodation "Yamagata Area", please see [ JR East View Dynamic Rail Package ].
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