Tamaki Shrine

In Totsukawa Village at the southern tip of Nara Prefecture, near the summit of the sacred 1,076-meter Mount Tamaki, sits Tamaki Shrine. Regarded as the inner shrine of the three Kumano grand shrines, it is a storied old shrine said to have been founded more than two thousand years ago. Wrapped in a deep forest where ancient giant cedars grow, including the Jindai cedar said to be 3,000 years old, it has been handed down as a shrine that only those who are called can reach, owing to the steepness of the journey. Known for blessings of fortune, protection, and matchmaking, it is one of the finest remote power spots in Nara, cleansing the hearts of those who visit.

Highlights

- Jindai Cedar: A sacred tree said to be 3,000 years old, with an overwhelming presence that evokes vitality and history. - Main Shrine Halls: Solemn halls standing within the deep forest, where the serene air tightens the heart. - Tamaishi Shrine: An inner shrine near the summit of Mount Tamaki, a mystical sacred site enshrining a white sacred stone. - Married Cedars: Two great cedars standing close together, cherished by those praying for a good match.

Enjoying the Seasons

Early summer with fresh green fills the whole forest with vitality, deepening its divine air all the more. Autumn offers the pleasure of driving the mountain road dyed in foliage. In winter, snow and ice can make the roads difficult, so check road conditions before your visit. As it sits at high elevation and the summit is cool, having a layer is reassuring even in summer.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Tamakigawa, Totsukawa Village, Yoshino-gun, Nara - Access: About 2 hours 30 minutes by car from the Gojo City direction (a car is recommended as public transport is inconvenient) - Hours: A daytime visit is recommended (shrine office about 8:00 to 17:00) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

Set deep in the mountains, the walk from the parking lot to the main shrine takes about 15 minutes along a cedar-lined path, so visit in comfortable shoes. As the route follows steep mountain roads, allow plenty of time for driving, and prepare fuel and drinks in advance. Worshipping in the clear air of early morning lets you feel the stillness of the sacred precinct all the more deeply.