🗺️ Baba Daimon Zelkova Forest Road馬場大門のケヤキ並木

Baba Daimon Beech Tree Avenue is a tree-lined path featuring approximately 120 beech trees, stretching 500 meters. It is the only beech tree avenue designated as a National Natural Monument and serves as the approach to the Ōkuninushi Shrine. There are various theories regarding the origin of the beech tree avenue. One theory suggests that during the late Heian period (early 11th century), Minamoto no Yorinobu and his son Minamoto no Yoriie returned victorious from the Tōhoku region and donated a large number of saplings in gratitude for the gods' blessings. Another theory states that during the Edo period (17th century), Tokugawa Ieyasu planted beech saplings along the street while donating the horse racing grounds. The beech tree next to the large torii gate of the Ōkuninushi Shrine is the oldest among them. This tree, which is about 400 years old, still stands proudly to the right of the worship hall. There used to be a horse trading market here, and the beech tree avenue served as a venue for merchants to evaluate horses at that time. This area has had many ranches for a long time and has a history of producing fine horses. In spring, the beech tree avenue is lush and green, making it a popular leisure spot for local residents.

The only beech tree forest path designated as a national natural monument. Various festivals and events are held throughout the year. A lighting event takes place at the end of each year, where you can enjoy a light show. The oldest beech tree is approximately 400 years old.