Guide
Located near the summit in the Hamachi area of Ishikari, Senbon Nara is a scenic spot centered around a colossal Mizunara oak tree. With its countless branches spreading wide toward the sky, the tree's silhouette resembles the many hands of a deity, which is how it earned its name. It is a place where the breathtaking sculptural beauty of nature meets a unique, long-standing local tradition.
This site is home to a unique tradition of offering "shamoji" (wooden rice paddles) to express wishes. The practice is rooted in a play on words: the act of "scooping" (sukuu) a rice paddle symbolizes bringing luck or salvation to those who visit. Even today, many decorated rice paddles and offering boxes can be seen, representing a deep history of human hope and reverence for the natural world.
The primary draw is the overwhelming presence of the giant Mizunara oak. Its massive trunk and height make it stand out prominently against the surrounding forest. Visitors can also observe the striking sight of numerous wooden rice paddles placed beneath the tree, a beautiful fusion of nature and culture. The support structures and maintained stairs are also part of the history of preserving this magnificent living monument.
Access to the road leading to Senbon Nara is restricted during the winter season (roughly from late November to late April) due to road closures. Therefore, the best time to visit is from spring to autumn when the snow has melted. Visiting during seasons when the greenery is lush or when the branches are most striking will allow you to fully appreciate the tree's powerful form. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended to see the fine details of the offerings.
Here, you can quietly admire the sculptural beauty of nature. The environment is incredibly peaceful, allowing you to spend time listening to the wind and breathing in the forest air. Observing the unique landscape of the ritual rice paddles is an experience unique to this location. While the area is somewhat maintained, please remember to remain respectful and quiet as you are in a natural setting.
The Hamachi area of Ishikari offers several other stunning natural landmarks. You can explore sites like Cape Yudofu, Shiragane Falls, and Mt. Kogane to enjoy the grand, sweeping landscapes typical of Hokkaido. This area makes for an excellent addition to a scenic driving route.
As you will be walking through a natural environment with uneven paths and stairs, comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes are essential. Please check road access before traveling, as the route is closed during winter. There are no restrooms or shops at the site, so please prepare accordingly. Please treat the offering boxes and ritual-related items with respect, and enjoy photography while being mindful of the natural environment.