Panduan
Oyunohara, located in Hongu, 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 of the structures were lost due to a massive flood in the Meiji era, the site remains a powerful spiritual center. Today, a massive torii gate, one of the largest in Japan, stands as a symbol of this history. The vast grounds, lush greenery, and ancient stone shrines offer visitors a sense of profound serenity and healing.
This land is known as a sacred place where gods are said to have descended. Until the Edo period, pilgrims practiced "Mizugori" (ritual purification by water) by crossing the rivers. In 1889, a major flood caused many of the original shrine buildings to be swept away. The surviving shrines were moved to the current Kumano Hongu Taisha location. Today, the site serves as a memorial to its former glory, featuring the massive torii gate (built in 2000, standing 33.9 meters tall and 42 meters wide) and historic stone shrines that preserve the sanctity of the area.
The most iconic sight is the colossal reinforced concrete torii gate that reaches toward the sky. Its overwhelming scale is not only perfect for photography but also inspires a deep sense of awe. Behind the gate, the "East Stone Shrine" and "West Stone Shrine" stand quietly, marking the sites of the former shrines. The East Shrine honors subordinate shrines like Yata no Karasu Jinja, while the West Shrine marks the former locations of the central shrines. These stone structures are vital historical remains that tell the story of this once-grand sanctuary. The surrounding forest and the changing seasonal scenery also add to the spiritual atmosphere.
Oyunohara reveals different beauties throughout the year. In spring, the area is adorned with vibrant cherry blossoms, creating a stunning contrast against the massive torii gate. During the twilight or blue hour, the illuminated torii gate creates a mystical and dreamlike atmosphere. If you visit during traditional festivals, you may witness the beauty of ritual lights and ancient ceremonies. For those seeking absolute silence and peace, an early morning visit is highly recommended.
This is a place to escape the hustle of daily life and find spiritual refreshment. Many travelers visit after completing the Kumano Kodo "Nakahechi" pilgrimage route, making this their first encounter with a grand sacred landscape. You can walk through the natural surroundings to touch the fragments of history left by the ancient shrines. Additionally, the nearby Yunomine Onsen offers a perfect way to conclude your spiritual journey with a soak in traditional hot springs.
From Oyunohara, the current Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine is only about a 10-minute walk away. By walking past the giant torii, you can easily find your way to the main shrine. As part of the Kumano Kodo World Heritage route, you can also explore various "Oji" (resting places or small shrines) and enjoy the rich natural scenery of the region. The nearby hot spring areas are also an excellent way to end your trip.
While the area is open and natural, the ground can be uneven or paved with stones, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. While the grounds of Oyunohara are free to enter, please note that cash is often required for nearby transportation or local shops. As this is a sacred site, please be mindful when using tripods or conducting large-scale photography. Regarding accessibility, while the area around the torii is relatively flat, the stone shrine areas may have steps or uneven terrain. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, avoiding loud conversations to preserve the sanctity of the site.