Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine

Among the Kumano Sanzan (the three grand Kumano shrines), which serve as the head shrines for "Kumano Shrines" across Japan, Kumano Hongu Taisha is especially known for its traditional, dignified atmosphere. On the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route, Kumano Hongu Taisha is the first of the three reached. The place name "Fushiogami" is said to come from people first catching sight of Kumano Hongu Taisha from afar at that point, and, overwhelmed with gratitude, prostrating themselves in worship. Access: get off at JR Kisei Main Line "Kii-Tanabe Station," then take a Meiko Bus and get off at "Hongu Taisha-mae," which is right nearby. Despite being surrounded by nature, it’s conveniently accessible. Throughout the shrine grounds you’ll see the symbol of a three-legged crow, known as "Yatagarasu." It appears in the "Jimmu Eastern Expedition" story of the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki, which describes Emperor Jimmu’s journey to move the capital from Miyazaki to Nara and become Japan’s first emperor. According to the legend, when Emperor Jimmu arrived in Kumano, the divine messenger Yatagarasu guided the way to Nara—so it is revered as an auspicious "guiding divine bird." Many visitors buy Yatagarasu charms as souvenirs from their visit to Kumano shrines.