Kunibiki no Kane, or Bear Watching Tower is a famous landmark of Kumano Sanzan and located at the foot of Mount Koya. The temple was originally dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto in 711, but over time its main shrine honors Fudo Myojo, a Buddhist deity. However, one of the oldest temples that still stands today is the Shinto shrine of Kumano Hongu Taisha located on the other side of Koyasan. As for the current shrine at 熊野神社 (Kunibiki no Kane), it was originally dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto and was known as Kumariyama-hiromi-miya, but its primary kami is Shinto god of fertility, rice, and prosperity: Hachiman. The shrine is famous for its large festival of Kumano-sai in October with thousands of red lanterns. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of Heian and Kamakura periods styles.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Fudo Myojo
- Coordinates
- 35.6910386, 140.2129713
Visitor tip
Bring a red lantern or participate in a tea ceremony as a way to honor Hachiman and take home a small token of appreciation from the shrine.
Cultural notes
Fudo Myojo, Shinto god of fertility and prosperity is enshrined here along with Hachiman. The festival features thousands of red lanterns that light up the night sky, symbolizing purification and protection.
Historical note
The original shrine was built in the 7th century, during the Asuka period, when it was dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto.