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Ushitora Jinja Shrine

Guide

Ushitora Jinja Shrine

7 min read

Overview & Charm

Ushitora Jinja is a historic shrine located in the Nagae area of Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. Founded in 806, it is one of the oldest and most significant shrines in the former Onomichi area. The shrine is most famous for the "Ushitora Jinja Camphor Tree Grove," a group of massive camphor trees designated as a Natural Monument of Hiroshima Prefecture. The site offers a profound sense of life and vitality through its ancient greenery.

History & Cultural Background

The shrine's origins date back to 806. According to the historical text "Onomichi Shiko" written in 1816, the shrine was already well-established by 1475, serving as a central point of faith for the local community for centuries. The deities enshrined here include Izanagi-no-Mikoto, Amaterasu Omikami, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, and Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, reflecting the deep-rooted local spiritual traditions.

Ushitora Jinja Shrine 1

Key Highlights

The most striking feature is the massive grove of camphor trees. There are four primary camphor trees in total, which are protected as a Natural Monument. One particularly impressive tree stands before the worship hall; its trunk splits into three branches at a height of 3 meters and reaches a diameter of approximately 7 meters. The thick, moss-covered trunks serve as a living testament to the passage of centuries.

Beyond its natural beauty, the shrine holds significant cultural value as a setting for the famous anime "The Girl Who Leapt Through Time" (Toki o Kakeru Shojo). Fans can recognize the scenery inspired by the slope on the west side of the shrine and the area behind the massive camphor trees. Additionally, the shrine's architecture has served as a model for other works, such as "Futari" and "Kamichu!"

Seasonal & Time-of-Day Recommendations

(Note: No specific seasonal or time-of-day information was provided in the source.)

Ushitora Jinja Shrine 2

Activities

(Note: No specific activities were provided in the source.)

Surrounding Area

The shrine is located within walking distance of the Senkoji Ropeway base station, making it a perfect stop while exploring the historic streets of Onomichi. It is also easily accessible via the "Nagae-guchi" bus stop on the Onomichi Bus line.

Ushitora Jinja Shrine 3

Visitor Information

  • Payment: Cash is required for offerings (Saisen) and purchasing charms (Omamori). Please carry Japanese Yen.
  • English Support: English signage and English-speaking staff availability are not guaranteed.
  • Reservations: No prior reservation is required for visiting.
  • Clothing: Due to the presence of stairs, slopes, and uneven terrain, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
  • Photography: While photography is generally permitted, please be respectful of the sacred atmosphere and avoid obstructing worshippers.
  • Accessibility: The grounds contain large rocks, massive tree roots, and several steps, which may make movement difficult for wheelchair users.
  • Etiquette: As this is a sacred Shinto shrine, please observe traditional worship etiquette and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.