Oyunohara

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Facts & Figures

Oyunohara, a sandbank at the confluence of the Otonashi and Kumano Rivers, was till 1889 the location of the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine. It is still a very popular tourist spot with the largest Torii Gate (Otorii) in Japan (33.9m tall and 42m wide, built in 2000) at its entrance.  Buy now and Save >
Since 2004 I have traveled nearly every year to Japan. The rail pass made my life easier to discover all those amazing places in my favorite country. Otorii means big gate and it is made out of steel with an weight of 172 tons. Since ancient times people believe this place has mystical power and Oyunohara was/is part of the pilgrimage to sacred Kumano Sanzan (three Grand Shrines of Kumano).

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the famous Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail with a local guide? Check out this page > for more details.

History

In 1889 a huge flood destroyed most of Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine. The remaining buildings were relocated to the top of a hill nearby (10min walk from Oyunohara). Two small stone shrines can still be found at Oyunohara. In 2000 Otorii was erected at the entrance of the sandbank. It took nearly 12 months to finish the construction.

Sightseeing spots

top:

Otorii - the gate will make you feel small, the largest Torii Gate in the world is an impressive sight

Kumano Hongu Taisha - is a Shinto Shrine and belongs to the three Kumano Sanzan shrines (Hayatama Taisha, Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha - Three Grand Shrines of Kumano) and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range - 1km away from Oyunohara

Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes - connects the other sacred UNESCO sites in the area - Koya-san, Hayatama Taisha, Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

April

Kumano Hongu Taisha Spring Festival (13th till 15th)
This traditional and spiritual festival is closely related with the pilgrimage to Kumano and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. On the 13th of April fathers carry their young sons, after a purification ceremony held at the sacred waters of Yunomine Onsen, on the shoulders and walking over the Dainichi-goe section of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route to Oyunohara. Everyone is wearing traditional costumes, which makes this festival so beautiful. On the 15th of April a portable mikoshi shrine is temporarily housing the invoked Kumano Deities and carried to the original location of descend, Oyunohara sandbank. Enjoy this peaceful festival in the Kumano Mountains.

August

Yata-no-Hi Matsuri Fire Festival (last Sat. in August)
The festival is held in Oyunohara (Hongu-cho). It honours the Yatagarasu crow (three legged crow). Do not miss Taiko drum and dancing shows, great fireworks and the parading of a fire mikoshi (portable Shinto shrine).