Kinomiya-jinja Shrine

Kinomiya Shrine (Kinomiyajinja) is a shrine in Atami that has long been worshipped as a deity of good fortune and auspicious connections. It is traditionally said that in the early Heian period, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro enshrined divided spirits in various places while praying for victory in battle, and Kinomiya Shrine is revered as the head shrine among 44 Kinomiya shrines nationwide. Its sacred camphor tree, the “Okusu,” is over 2,000 years old and is considered one of Japan’s leading power spots. It is designated a National Natural Monument, and past surveys have recognized it as the second-largest giant tree in Japan. With a trunk circumference of about 24 meters, many visitors come to pray for health and longevity. Legends say that circling the trunk once adds one year to your lifespan, and that walking around once while holding a wish in your heart will make it come true. There are several tea/rest areas on the grounds, and the shrine is popular (including among international visitors) as a relaxing place surrounded by greenery and water. Access: about a 5-minute walk from Kinomiya Station (JR Ito Line). From Atami Station (JR Tokaido Main Line), buses also run—about 20 minutes on the Jukkoku-toge line or Nishiyama loop; get off right in front at “Kinomiya Shrine Mae.”