Grand Shrine of Kumano Hongu Taisha

A beautiful shrine along the Wakayama Pilgrimage Route

Larry Knipfing Jul 10, 2016 - 1 min read

This ema wooden wishing plaque design is really unique

The area is famous for this mythical three-legged crow, Yatagarasu

A large beautiful torii gate greats visitors

A unique example of the mythical three-legged crow

A wedding in progress - what a lucky chance!

Gorgeous entrance to these shrine buildings

Common in Kumano, it's a symbol of rebirth and wisdom

The grand shrine for over 3000 Kumano shrines around Japan, this one is truly dignified and beautiful. What impresses here? A large stately torii gate at the entrance, a long high path leading from the gate to the shrine buildings, beautiful wooden architecture, and everywhere you turn - large cedar and cypress trees. There are also many examples of the mythical Kumano three-legged crow, Yatagarasu. The weather was perfect in late May.

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Find out more about Kumano Hongu Taisha.

Larry Knipfing @larry.knipfing

Born on Long Island, New York in 1958, I have spent the last 30 years of my life living in Japan, and enjoying every minute of it! I especially love photography, and Japan is definitely one of the most beautiful places in the world to photograph! My other love is fiction writing and I have pub...