Osugi Cedar Trees

Overview

The Osugi cedar trees stand tall in the grounds of Yasaka Shrine in Sugi, Otoo-cho, Nagaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture. Estimated to be over 3000 years old, their overwhelming scale is breathtaking and inspires a sense of the powerful force of life. They were once known by various names such as "Jindai-Sugi" (God-era Cedar), "Tenno-Sugi" (Emperor Cedar), and "Fufu-Sugi" (Husband and Wife Cedars), and commanded the awe of the people. The Osugi cedars have a long history as objects of faith, with various legends passed down through generations. For example, there's a legend that they were planted by Susanoo-no-mikoto, and another that tells of Sugimoto Taro Yoshiie, a samurai who came from Kyoto in the early 10th century, enshrining three sacred statues of Gion Goshu Tenno, Kifune Taisha, and Gyoki Bosatsu at the base of the trees. The Osugi cedars also have a deep connection with Hibari Misora. As a child, she is said to have convalesced in this area after a traffic accident, and prayed to the Osugi cedars to become Japan's greatest singer. She later became one of Japan's most celebrated singers, and in recognition of this connection, a memorial portrait and song monument were erected at Yasaka Shrine. The Osugi cedars are not only remarkable for their immense size, but also for the history, culture, and faith they embody, with many stories passed down through the ages. Shrouded in a mystical atmosphere, the Osugi cedars offer visitors a sense of peace and tranquility.