Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine Visit Guide: Access and Highlights

Why not visit “Kumano Nachi Taisha“, a mysterious sacred site in Wakayama Prefecture?

This article introduces the ancient history and myths, the magnificent Nachi Falls, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and the various blessings the shrine offers. You’ll also find information on access and nearby sightseeing spots.

Plan a trip to refresh your mind and body while surrounded by its magnificent nature and sacred atmosphere.

Overview of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine

Location and History of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is located in Nachikatsuura Town, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, halfway up Mt. Nachi at an altitude of approximately 350 meters.

The origins of Kumano Nachi Taisha are very old, dating back to the eastern expedition of the god Iwahiko no Mikoto, who later became Emperor Jimmu.

During the Heian period, the imperial family and aristocrats made pilgrimages to Kumano, and it prospered as a center of faith.

Many pilgrims visited Kumano Kodo as one of the three Kumano Sanzan shrines, drawn by its sacred atmosphere and beautiful nature.

Importance of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is extremely important in Japanese religious culture.

As one of the three Kumano Sanzan shrines, it forms the center of Kumano worship, along with Kumano Hongu Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. Pilgrims from all over Japan visit seeking its spiritual power and blessings.

Kumano Nachi Taisha is also part of the World Heritage Site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range,” recognized worldwide for its historical and cultural value.

Relationship Between Kumano Kodo and Kumano Sanzan

The Kumano Kodo is a route that many pilgrims walked from ancient times to the Middle Ages to visit the Kumano Sanzan.

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine has long been a destination for pilgrims on the Kumano Kodo, serving as one of its final stops.

The Kumano Kodo passes through steep mountain passes and beautiful forests, believed to purify the mind and body and bring you closer to the sacred land of Kumano. Today, many hikers and pilgrims visit this trail, enjoying its history and natural beauty.

Gods and Blessings Enshrined at Kumano Nachi Taisha

Main Enshrined Deity and Its Mythology

The main deity enshrined at Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is Kumano Fusumi Okami (Izanami no Mikoto).

Izanami no Mikoto is a central figure in the myth of the creation of Japan and, together with Izanagi no Mikoto, gave birth to many gods.

Hirogongen is also enshrined as the divine spirit of Nachi Falls, and the waterfall itself is worshiped as a god.

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls

Nachi Falls is located right next to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. This waterfall is one of Japan’s top three waterfalls, with a height of 133 meters.

Nachi Falls has been considered sacred since ancient times due to its beauty and strength, and the waterfall itself is worshiped as a divine spirit.

Standing in front of the waterfall is said to purify the mind and body, attracting many pilgrims.

Specific Benefits

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is said to offer a wide variety of blessings. The main benefits include good health, longevity, fulfillment of wishes, marriage, and prayers for victory.

In particular, contact with the divine spirits of Nachi Falls is believed to heal illnesses, ward off evil spirits, and purify the mind and body.

As it is also enshrined as a deity for married couples, it is said to bring blessings for marital harmony and fertility.

Characteristics of Kumano Nachi Taisha’s Architecture

Architectural Style

The architectural style of Kumano Nachi Taisha inherits traditional Japanese shrine architecture.

The roof, made of cypress bark, is particularly distinctive with its beautiful curves and textures. The entire precinct is designed to harmonize with nature, with careful attention to the layout and design of the buildings.

Major Buildings

The grounds of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine include important structures such as the main shrine, worship hall, and shrine gate.

The main shrine, where the main deity is enshrined, is decorated with beautiful carvings and decorations.

The worship hall is a place for pilgrims to offer their prayers, characterized by its spaciousness and solemn atmosphere.

The shrine gate, located at the entrance to the grounds, is a magnificent structure that welcomes visitors.

Highlights of the Temple Grounds

There are many attractions within the grounds of Kumano Nachi Taisha, including Nachi Falls.

The area features historical and traditional sites such as statues of Yatagarasu and sacred trees. The sacred trees, in particular, attract many pilgrims due to their gigantic size and sacred atmosphere.

Daimonzaka

Daimonzaka is part of the Kumano Kodo and is known as the approach to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. This stone-stepped path is a historic route walked by pilgrims since ancient times, giving visitors a sense of past pilgrimages. Climbing Daimonzaka heightens anticipation for seeing the sacred Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, purifying both mind and body.

Access to Kumano Nachi Taisha

Transportation from Major Stations

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine can be accessed by bus from Kii-Katsuura Station on the JR Kisei Main Line.

Take a bus（Kumano-Gobo Nankai bus） bound for Nachi Falls from Kii-Katsuura Station and get off at Taisha-mae. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes and the journey takes about 20 minutes.

If using the Shinkansen, take the limited express Kuroshio from Shin-Osaka Station to Kii-Katsuura Station, which takes about 4 hours. Alternatively, use the limited express Nanki from the Nagoya area.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

There are many tourist spots around Kumano Nachi Taisha.

You can visit other Kumano Sanzan shrines such as Kumano Hongu Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha, each with its own history and charm.

Katsuura Onsen is also famous as a hot spring town, perfect for relaxing after visiting Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine.

Additionally, there are many hiking trails in the natural beauty of Mt. Nachi and along the Kumano Kodo, allowing you to enjoy both nature and history.

Kumano Nachi Taisha is a fascinating place that combines history, nature, and beautiful architecture. A visit will allow you to experience the greatness of Japan’s traditional culture and natural wonders.