Shingu Kumano Shrine Nagatoko

【The winds of Heian blow through】 44 giant pillars and a golden ginkgo tree. The "Shingu Kumano Shrine Nagatoko" conveys the breath of ascetics.

Nestled in a quiet forest on the outskirts of Kitakata City, the "Shingu Kumano Shrine" features the worship hall "Nagatoko," a national important cultural property that preserves the architectural style of the late Heian period. Its completely open structure, with no walls or doors, is extremely rare nationwide and exudes an overwhelming presence at first glance.

■ The architectural beauty calculated by 44 round pillars

A must-see point for enthusiasts is the 44 thick pillars supporting the thatched roof.

• Geometric beauty: The sight of cylindrical pillars with a diameter of about 45 cm arranged at equal intervals embodies a robust yet sophisticated beauty.
• The aura of a place for ascetic practices: Without walls, you can directly feel the wind and sounds of nature, allowing you to relive the spirituality that ancient practitioners experienced during their training.

■ The "golden carpet" laid by the 800-year-old ginkgo tree

When you visit in autumn, you are greeted by the breathtaking sight of the sacred 800-year-old ginkgo tree, standing about 30 meters tall.

• Golden contrast: The scattered leaves dye the ground into a "golden carpet," creating a stunning contrast between the heavy texture of Nagatoko and the vibrant yellow.
• Harmony with nature: Enjoy the breathtakingly beautiful space where the ancient tree and Heian architecture unite.