⛩️ Tamaki Shrine

Tamaki Shrine is located at the foot of Mount Tamaki, which stands at an elevation of 1,076 meters, and is a sacred site of the Shugendo tradition. During the eastern expedition of Emperor Jimmu, he rested and prayed for military success in this area. It is the inner sanctuary of the Kumano Sanzan, highly revered by the public. It is registered as a World Heritage Site under "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," and is part of the historic site "Omine Okugendo." *The Kumano Sanzan refers to the three shrines: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. Although it is accessible by car, the narrow mountain roads are winding and require special attention while driving. Snow often accumulates in winter. The area frequently experiences thick fog, enveloping the entire shrine in a dreamlike atmosphere. The main shrine building of Tamaki Shrine is constructed in the irimoya-zukuri style using zelkova wood. The office building, built in 1804, combines the styles of a shoin (study) and a sanraku (prayer hall), representing a unique architectural style of the Shugendo sect and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The exquisite paintings by the late Edo period Kanō school artist Tachibana Yasuaki are also a must-see. Additionally, further up from the main hall is the summit area where the Tamaki Stone Shrine is located, which is said to house the stone placed by Emperor Jimmu. This shrine, which is the origin of the shrine's name, is also a customary stop for practitioners to visit before paying respects at the main hall.

The Okunoin of the Kumano Sanzan, related to the legend of the神武東征 (Shinbutsu Tōsei), is a sacred site of the Ōmine Okugendo and is also registered as a World Heritage site. The unique architectural style of the shrine office is designated as an important cultural property by the country. The sliding door paintings in the shrine office are masterpieces by Kanō school artists. The Tamakushi Shrine is an energy spot located at the mountain's summit.