Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine (Honmiya, Hongu-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture) is one of the main shrines of the Kumano Sanzan (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha), and has long been a center of Kumano faith, attracting worshippers from all over the country. It is a sacred place deeply connected to the Kumano Kodo, and is also registered as a component part of the World Heritage Site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range."
The original shrine site was on a sandbar (Oyunohara) on the Kumano River, but the shrine building was washed away in a flood during the Meiji period, so it was moved to its current location. A large torii gate stands at the old site, evoking the grandeur of the shrine's past.
Its distinctive features include a natural environment surrounded by deep mountains and rivers, symbols of Kumano faith such as the Yatagarasu, and the "pilgrimage route" atmosphere that can be experienced through the approach to the shrine and surrounding ancient paths. It is a sacred place where history and nature come together, and is popular with worshippers and trekkers from both Japan and abroad.
Highlights
-
Main hall and worship hall
A magnificent shrine and place of worship. Prayers and religious ceremonies are sometimes held here by Shinto priests, creating a solemn atmosphere. -
Oyunohara (former shrine site) and the large torii gate
The old shrine site stands on a sandbar in the Kumano River. The large torii gate is a landmark and is a popular spot for taking commemorative photos. It evokes the former center of Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine. -
Yatagarasu motif
The three-legged crow, the guardian deity of Kumano, is displayed in various places. It is a symbol unique to Kumano. -
Entrance to the Kumano Kodo (Nakahechi, Ohechi, etc.)
It connects to the various routes of the Kumano Kodo, allowing you to experience the feeling of ancient pilgrimages as you walk along the pilgrimage routes. You can choose from a short stroll to a full-scale trekking trip. -
The nature of the approach and temple grounds
There are old cedar trees, clear streams, and seasonal flowers, and it is especially beautiful during the fresh greenery of spring and the changing colors of the leaves in autumn. -
Nearby hot springs (Yunomine Onsen, etc.)
Nearby are the World Heritage hot springs of Yunomine Onsen and Kawayu Onsen, so you can enjoy a trip that combines worship with hot springs.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
-
public transport
The nearest major stations are JR Shingu Station and JR Kii-Tanabe Station. There are bus routes from each station heading towards Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine (the route and number of buses vary depending on the season and timetable, so please check the operation status in advance). Direct shuttle buses and tour buses may also operate during the tourist season. -
Car (personal car/rental car)
It can be accessed via the Hanwa Expressway, Kisei Expressway, etc. Parking is available on-site or in the surrounding area (it may fill up during peak hours, so we recommend arriving early). -
Air
Access from the nearest airport is by land (train, bus, car). From the Kansai region, it is common to combine the Shinkansen, conventional trains, express trains, and buses.
*Specific times, travel times, and transfers vary greatly depending on your departure point, so please check the latest transportation information (JR, local bus, and express bus timetables) before departing.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visit only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including visiting the temple grounds and taking photos)
- Take your time and explore the surrounding area: Half a day (Oyunohara, strolling around the area, visiting souvenir shops, etc.)
- Combining a hot spring and Kumano Kodo trekking trip: 1 to several days (if you want to enjoy Yunomine Onsen and the Oku-Kumano trails)
Nearby spots
- Oyunohara: The large torii gate and wide sandbar at the former shrine grounds. Perfect for taking photos.
- Yunomine Onsen: A hot spring resort that is a World Heritage Site. It is recommended to stop by after visiting the shrine as it has famous baths such as Tsuboyu.
- Kawayu Onsen: A unique spot where you can enjoy hot springs on the riverbank (bathing conditions vary depending on the season and location).
- Kumano Kodo (Nakahechi Route): A historic pilgrimage route popular with tourists who come for hiking and purification rituals.
- Souvenir shops and museums around the main shrineThere are facilities where you can learn about Kumano faith and the history of the region, as well as shops selling local specialties.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: During Golden Week, the Obon festival in summer, the autumn foliage season, and the New Year holidays, there are many visitors, and the parking lot and surrounding roads are congested. Early mornings and weekdays are relatively quiet.
- Worship etiquette: When passing through the torii gate, bow once and purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification fountain) before praying at the worship hall. Please observe general shrine etiquette, such as removing your hat and remaining quiet within the grounds. Please be considerate and do not disturb priests or other worshippers who are performing rituals or prayers.
- photograph: Generally, photography is permitted within the temple grounds, but it is considered good manners to refrain from taking photos inside the worship hall, during religious ceremonies and festivals, or when individuals are praying. Please follow the posted notices and instructions of the staff.
- Season and weather：Because it is a mountainous area, the weather is changeable, and roads and approach paths may be closed during rain or typhoons. If you are walking the Kumano Kodo, please bring rain gear and trekking equipment, and be mindful of your physical strength and time allocation.
- Environmental conservation and local manners: In order to protect the natural environment and local life, please take care to take your trash home with you, avoid fires and camping outside designated areas, etc.
- Barrier-free: There are steps and stone steps along the approach and within the grounds. If you are using a wheelchair or have trouble with your feet, we recommend that you inquire in advance or visit with someone accompanying you.
Kumano Hongu Taisha is a mystical place where history and nature intertwine. You can have a deeper experience of Kumano by touring the surrounding hot springs and ancient roads in addition to visiting the shrine. It's a good idea to check the latest traffic information, opening and closing times, and event schedules before visiting.
