Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine [Kumamoto]

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine summary】

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is believed to have been founded between the late Kamakura Period (1185) and the Muromachi Period (1573), but details are unknown. It is believed to have been established through a combination of the ancient belief in rock formations centering on Kakutoiwa and Kumano worship brought by Shugenja (mountain ascetic) believers.

The deities enshrined at the shrine are Izanaki-mikoto, Izanami-mikoto, Ishikumitoshogun, and Aso-daimyojin.

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine road approaching a shrine】

The approach to the temple is lined with as many as 97 stone lanterns, and the countless steps from below are overwhelming.

The beautiful shrine at the end of the slope and the natural scene in the mossy green world is very fantastic. Especially on rainy days, you will feel the cool air and the peaceful flow of time.

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine hall of worship】

Since the shrine is unmanned, I was told that red seals can be obtained at a different location. This was a little disappointing. The stairs in front of the shrine are narrow and slippery after rain, so you need to wear sneakers or other shoes that are easy to walk in. The red seal can be obtained at the tourist information center “Takamori Tourism Promotion Organization” near Takamori Station.

The foggy, moss-covered lanterns and cedar forest approach were fantastic and mysterious.

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine Ugeto-iwa (rock with a cave in)】

A path leads up from the side of the hall of worship, and further up the path is Ugeto-iwa, the sacred object of this shrine. It is said to be a symbol that no matter how difficult the goal, one can always achieve it, and is said to bring good luck for “success and victory.

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine Rurouni Kenshin: Hotarubi no Morihe Location】

The shrine was used as a filming location for the movie “Rurouni Kenshin” and as a model for the setting of the anime “To the Hotarubi no Morihe” (written by Yuki Midorikawa, the author of “Natsume’s Book of Friends” and a native and resident of Kumamoto Prefecture). The shrine is also the model for the setting of the anime “To the Forest of Hotarubi” (written by Yuki Midorikawa of “Natsume Yujincho” fame, who was born and lives in Kumamoto Prefecture).

There was also a stone statue of an ayakashi, which looks like it might appear in “Natsume’s Friend” by Yuki Midorikawa.

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine Nearby attractions】

Ikiemi Kumanoimasu Shrine, Frankie Statue

【Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine Access】

Manager’s Comments

You may be able to enjoy the mystical atmosphere on a sunny day, but if it is a rainy day and there is a bit of fog, the moss-covered lanterns and cedar forest approach will be more magical and mystical. Personally, I thought the shrine was most beautiful on rainy days. However, it is very crowded when foreign tourists come to the shrine by bus because of the shrine’s fame. The sacred atmosphere was spoiled by the loud Chinese language……Also, it seems that the photo spots are occupied, so please mind your manners. I think it is best to visit on a weekday morning at least.

Site/Facility Size

 (3.5)

Richness of Nature

 (5)

Ease of access

 (2.5)

Number of tourists

 (3.5)

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

2619 Kamishikimi, Takamori-cho, Aso-gun, Kumamoto 869-1601, Japan

※Free parking available

10 minutes drive from Minamiaso Railway Takamori Station

参考

熊本阿蘇『野の花と風薫る郷』熊本県 高森町

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