Kumano Shrine, located in Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture, is one of the most revered Shinto shrines in Japan. As a major pilgrimage site on the Kumano Kodo trail, it has been an important cultural and spiritual center for centuries. The shrine complex is dedicated to the deity Susanoo no Mikoto, who is believed to have created the Kumano River and its tributaries.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, no, Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.213008, 140.1213417
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, consider visiting Kumano Shrine at dawn or dusk when the sun casts a warm glow over the shrine grounds.
Cultural notes
Kumano Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of the Kumano region, where Susanoo no Mikoto is said to have defeated his brother, Amaterasu, by bathing in a hot spring. This mythological event is still celebrated today with the annual 'Mukozono-mai' festival.
Historical note
The current shrine building was constructed in 1869 during the Meiji period, replacing a previous structure dating back to the 8th century.