Arima-cho, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Hana no Iwaya Shrine, recognized as Japan's oldest shrine and a UNESCO World Heritage site, enshrines a massive 45-meter-tall rock as its deity, preserving ancient nature worship traditions. Unlike typical shrines, it lacks a main hall, offering a direct connection to nature. Dedicated to Izanami-no-Mikoto, the mother of the gods, it's accessible from Kumano-shi Station by bus or a short drive from the Kumano Owase Road. Don't miss the impressive "Otsunakake Shinji" festival in February and October. Visit to experience a unique spiritual atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Cultural Property: World Heritage Site