Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
Free
Kimine Shrine, nestled deep within Yoshino's Okusenbon area amidst ancient cedars and cherry trees, is a historic site dedicated to Kanayamahiko-no-Mikoto, the deity of Yoshino's lands. Historically a training ground for Shugendo practitioners, it's even mentioned in 'Eiga Monogatari' as a place where Fujiwara no Michinaga prayed. The shrine houses a national treasure, Fujiwara no Michinaga's sutra cylinder (entrusted to the Kyoto National Museum). Just a short walk down the path from the shrine, you'll find Yoshitsune Kakureto (Yoshitsune's Hidden Tower), where Yoshitsune is said to have hidden with Benkei and his followers. Admission is free, and it's best visited in the afternoon to fully appreciate the serene atmosphere.