Guide
The Yama no Kami Reisai is a significant ritual held at Tamaki Jinja, part of the 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range' UNESCO World Heritage site. Located near the summit of Mt. Tamaki at an altitude of approximately 1,000m, this shrine has long been revered as a sacred site for the fusion of Shinto and Buddhist traditions. The ritual takes place in an incredibly holy atmosphere, surrounded by massive ancient trees, including the legendary Jindai Sugi cedars said to be 3,000 years old.
The greatest draw is the mystical atmosphere of the sacred grove, where massive Jindai Sugi and other ancient natural monuments radiate a powerful sense of life. The shrine grounds, often shrouded in ethereal mist, create a landscape truly worthy of being called a 'forest where gods dwell.' Visitors can experience the seamless blend of traditional Japanese architecture and breathtaking nature, including the historic shrine buildings and the designated Tangible Cultural Property office.
The festival is held on December 7.
Venue: Tamaki Jinja (1 Tamakigawa, Totsukawa, Yoshino-gun, Nara Prefecture)
As Tamaki Jinja is located at a high altitude, please prepare thoroughly for your journey. Since road conditions in the mountainous area can change due to season and weather, we recommend checking official local information before your visit.
The Yama no Kami Reisai is a solemn ritual. Visitors are asked to respect the sanctity of the shrine and the surrounding natural environment by maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor. Due to the high altitude, please prepare for much colder temperatures than in the lowlands.