Kamikura Shrine

Kamikura Shrine is part of the World Heritage site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," and it is also designated as a Wakayama Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property. It is a subsidiary shrine of Kumano Hayatama Taisha located on the mid-slope of Mt. Gongen, enshrined on Mt. Kamikura (120 m elevation). A defining feature is climbing the 583 stone steps to reach the shrine precinct. At the top, the sacred object "Gotobiki-iwa" is enshrined, and the view of the city and the Kumano Sea from there is spectacular. There is also a plaza below the shrine buildings where you can look out over Shingu City and the sea. Several events are held throughout the year, and in particular, the famous festival "Oto Matsuri" on February 6 takes place here: about 2,000 men called "Noboriko" carry pine torches lit from the sacred fire and race down the 538 stone steps—an awe-inspiring sight. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, and the sight of the shrine buildings seen through illuminated sakura at night is also exceptional. Access: take JR West or the JR Kisei Main Line to "Shingu Station," then walk about 15 minutes west. From Shingu Station, Kumano Gobo Nankai buses also operate, allowing you to extend your trip to places like "Kawayu Onsen" and "Kumano Hongu Taisha."