Guide
Oyunohara, located in Hongu Town, Wakayama Prefecture, is an extremely sacred site that was once the original location of Kumano Hongu Taisha. Historically, a vast number of shrine buildings stood on this large islet where the Kumano, Otonashi, and Iwata rivers converge. Although many structures were lost due to a massive flood in the Meiji era, the site remains a powerful spiritual center. Today, it is marked by one of Japan's largest torii gates, creating an overwhelming sense of scale. The vast grounds, lush greenery, and weathered stone shrines offer visitors a profound sense of tranquility and healing.
This land has long been revered as a place where deities descend. Until the Edo period, visitors practiced "Mizugori" (water purification) by crossing the rivers to cleanse themselves. In 1889, a major flood destroyed much of the original shrine complex; the surviving shrines were relocated to the current Kumano Hongu Taisha site. Today, the site serves as a symbolic monument to that history. The massive Great Torii, standing 33.9 meters tall and 42 meters wide, was erected in 2000 to preserve the sanctity and grandeur of this ancient sacred space.
The most iconic sight is the massive reinforced concrete torii gate that reaches toward the sky. Its scale is not only perfect for photography but also evokes a natural sense of awe. Behind the gate, the "East Stone Shrine" and "West Stone Shrine" stand quietly, marking the locations of the former shrines. The East Shrine honors subordinate shrines like Yata no Karasu Shrine, while the West Shrine marks the former site of the central shrines. These stone structures are vital historical relics that tell the story of this once-massive sanctuary. The surrounding forest and the changing seasonal scenery are also essential parts of the experience.
Oyunohara reveals different beauties throughout the year. In spring, the area is adorned with vibrant cherry blossoms, creating a stunning contrast between the pink flowers and the giant torii gate. During the blue hour or at dusk, the illuminated torii creates a mystical and ethereal atmosphere. If you seek peace and quiet, an early morning visit is highly recommended. During traditional festivals, the sight of lanterns and ritual ceremonies can add to the spiritual depth of the location.
This is a place to disconnect from the bustle of daily life and refresh your spirit. Many visitors arrive here after hiking the Nakahechi section of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Walking through the natural surroundings allows you to trace the fragments of history where the original shrines once stood. You can also combine your visit with a trip to nearby historic hot spring areas like Yunomine Onsen to experience deep Japanese culture and nature.
From Oyunohara, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the current Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine. By walking past the Great Torii, you can easily find the path leading to the main shrine. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo route, where you can explore various "Oji" (subsidiary shrines/resting points) amidst beautiful natural scenery. Nearby hot spring towns also make this a perfect destination to conclude a spiritual journey.