Kamo Hachiman Shrine [Kagoshima]

2025年2月8日

【Kamo Hachiman Shrine summary】

Kamo Hachiman Shrine was built in 1123. It is said that the shrine was built by Shunsei Chikakiyo, the first head of the Kamo clan, when he went to the province of Osumi. After a fierce battle with the Shimazu clan during the Warring States period, the Kamo clan was defeated and fell to the Shimazu clan, and both the samurai residence and shrine were evacuated in 1557, but the shrine was later rebuilt by Shimazu Yoshihiro.

The deities enshrined at the shrine are Emperor Nakai, Emperor Ojin, and Empress Jingu.

【Kamo Hachiman Shrine precincts】

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The grounds of the shrine are not large, but they are beautifully maintained. Historically, it is believed that the shrine was built around a large camphor tree.

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The current shrine pavilion was rebuilt after being severely damaged by Typhoon No. 13 in 1985. The shrine also houses 116 bronze mirrors, making it the largest collection of bronze mirrors in Kagoshima Prefecture. Among them is a bronze mirror from the Kamakura period (1185-1333), which has been designated a national important cultural property.

【Kamo Hachiman Shrine Large camphor tree in Kamo】

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Located in the precincts of Kamo Hachiman Shrine, it has more presence than the shrine’s main hall. This tree was recognized as the oldest tree in Japan at 1,600 years old in a survey of large trees and large forests conducted by the Environmental Agency in 1988. It is now a special natural monument designated by the national government.

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At 1,600 years old, it has been alive since the Kofun period. I have seen many giant trees, but it is rare to find one in such a healthy state.

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With a root girth of 33 meters, it is more than twice as large as even the famous Jomon cedar, which is said to be the largest in Japan, with a root girth of 16 meters. There are many camphor trees among the giant trees in Japan, and it is said that nine out of the top ten trees are camphor trees. There are many splendid camphor trees in western Japan, such as the camphor tree at Oyamazumi Shrine in Ehime Prefecture.

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Oyamazumi Shrine [Ehime]

【Kamo Hachiman Shrine pet cat】

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A friendly cat named “Hachi” is kept at the shrine and naps in the main hall. Be sure to check your surroundings when entering and exiting the parking lot to avoid stepping on the cat.

【Kamo Hachiman Shrine Access】

Manager’s Comments

The camphor tree, estimated to be 1,600 years old, had an amazingly thick trunk. I think it is the biggest one I have ever seen. It is a place where gentle time flows together with the sacred tree, and I think it is a place where one can feel at home. The surrounding area of Gamo is a tourist town that has been recognized as a Japanese Heritage site, so if you have time, I recommend going to the tourist center and walking around the other facilities.

Site/Facility Size

(3)

Richness of Nature

(4)

Ease of access

(2)

Number of tourists

(3)