Complete Guide to Kinomiya Shrine | The 2000-Year-Old Camphor Tree and Atami’s Oldest Power Spot
Kinomiya Shrine, a representative tourist attraction of Atami, has recently attracted considerable attention. With a nationally designated natural monument, a camphor tree over 2000 years old, as its sacred tree, this shrine is known for its diverse blessings, including matchmaking, health and longevity, and business prosperity. It has long been revered as a god of good fortune and auspiciousness. This article comprehensively introduces everything you need to know before visiting, from the history of Kinomiya Shrine to its highlights, how to worship, and access information.
What is Kinomiya Shrine? | Atami’s Guardian Deity with 1300 Years of History
Kinomiya Shrine is located in Nishiyama-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and its founding dates back approximately 1300 years to the Nara period. Historically known as “Kinomiya Myojin” and “Kinomiya Daimyojin,” it has watched over the region as the guardian deity of Atami.
Origin and Legends
There are several theories regarding the origin of Kinomiya Shrine, but the most widely accepted is that it began in the Nara period when a wooden statue caught in a fisherman’s net was enshrined. There is also a record that in 710 AD, a fisherman discovered a wooden statue in his net in Atami Bay and enshrined it.
In the early Heian period, it is said that Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, the Shogun, prayed before the shrine for victory in battle and enshrined divided spirits in various locations. Currently, it is the head shrine of 44 Kinomiya Shrines nationwide and enjoys widespread devotion.
Three Deities and Their Benefits
Kinomiya Shrine enshrines three deities, each offering different benefits.
Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto
Known as the god of matchmaking, marital harmony, and business prosperity. He is also the principal deity of Izumo Taisha Shrine, believed to connect people and bring harmony to families and business success.
Isotakeru-no-Mikoto
A god of trees and nature, with a myth of planting trees throughout Japan. He is believed to grant healing from illness and promote longevity, and has a deep connection to the sacred camphor tree of Kinomiya Shrine. When he was enshrined in Atami, he delivered a divine oracle to protect the locals and travelers, making it a popular pilgrimage site for tourists visiting Izu.
Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto
A hero appearing in ancient mythology, revered as the god of victory, success, and long-lasting military fortune.
The Sacred Tree “Great Camphor Tree” | The Power of the Second Largest Tree in Japan
The main reason for visiting Kinomiya Shrine is the sacred tree “Great Camphor Tree” located at the back left of the main hall. This sacred giant tree is a symbol of Kinomiya Shrine and attracts many visitors as a representative power spot of Atami.
A Giant Tree with an Overwhelming Presence
The Great Camphor Tree is said to be over 2000 years old and was recognized as the second largest tree in Japan in a survey conducted by the Ministry of the Environment in 1992. Its trunk circumference reaches approximately 24 meters, and witnessing its imposing presence naturally evokes a sense of awe and makes it impossible not to offer a prayer. It has also been designated a national natural monument and is said to be the largest tree on Honshu.
Legends Surrounding the Great Camphor Tree
Various legends surround the Great Camphor Tree. The most famous legend is that “walking around the Great Camphor Tree once will extend your life by one year.” Many worshippers believe this legend and slowly walk around the tree, praying for good health and longevity.
It is also said that if you walk around the tree once while keeping a wish in your heart, that wish will come true. Furthermore, there is a legend that if you keep your wish a secret while walking around the tree, that secret will be kept forever.
Proper Etiquette for Visiting the Great Camphor Tree
When visiting the Great Camphor Tree, the correct order is to first complete the formal worship at the main shrine. Standing before the Great Camphor Tree, first bow, then slowly walk around it clockwise. At this time, it is important to calm your mind and feel the life force emanating from the tree. After completing one circuit, bow again towards the Great Camphor Tree to express your gratitude.
Highlights and Facilities on the Shrine Grounds
Besides the large camphor tree, there are many other points of interest within the grounds of Kinomiya Shrine. The lush greenery and water create a tranquil space that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Main Hall and Worship Hall
After passing through the torii gate and proceeding along the approach, the main hall, the central structure of Kinomiya Shrine, appears before you. The beautiful vermilion-lacquered shrine conveys the history and traditions of Atami. When praying, please follow the proper etiquette of two bows, two claps, and one bow.
Benzaiten Shrine
Within the grounds is a shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, believed to bring blessings for improvement in performing arts and increased wealth. Benzaiten, also a goddess of water, is well-suited to Atami, a hot spring resort, and attracts many visitors.
Cafes and Tea Houses on the Shrine Grounds
In recent years, several cafes and tea houses have been established within the grounds of Kinomiya Shrine, providing a space to relax after your visit.
Saryo Houko
A tranquil cafe nestled within the shrine grounds, where you can enjoy matcha green tea and Japanese sweets. A cup of tea while gazing at the large camphor tree is a special experience.
Goshiki no Mori
This cafe offers unique menu items, including lucky charm sweets, that can only be enjoyed here. A perfect spot to stop by to commemorate your visit.
Torii no Musubiha
A cafe stand offering light meals and drinks, located along the approach to the shrine.
Kusunoki no Kaori
This shop also sells original products related to the sacred tree.
These facilities are open year-round and are popular resting places for visitors.
Amulet and Items Available
At the amulet office, you can receive various amulets and goshuin (shrine stamps). The original amulets of Kinomiya Shrine include those featuring the large camphor tree, as well as those for matchmaking, health, and longevity, each tailored to different blessings.
In addition to the regular goshuin (temple/shrine stamps), seasonal designs are sometimes available, making it a must-see for goshuin collectors. Reception hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Kogashi Festival (Kinomiya Shrine Annual Grand Festival) | One of Atami’s Three Great Festivals
The Kogashi Festival, held annually from July 14th to 16th, is the annual grand festival of Kinomiya Shrine and an important religious ceremony, considered one of Atami’s three great festivals.
Origin of the Kogashi Festival
“Kogashi” refers to “roasted barley,” and in Atami, it has long been believed that touching and consuming roasted barley brings good health and protection from illness. This tradition continues today, and during the festival, many worshippers visit Kinomiya Shrine seeking roasted barley.
Highlights of the Grand Festival
During the grand festival, various religious ceremonies are held, including the procession of the portable shrine. The procession of the portable shrine into the shrine grounds on the final day is particularly spectacular. The sight of the bearers parading through the grounds with energetic shouts is a quintessential summer scene in Atami.
At night, lanterns illuminate the shrine grounds and approach, creating a magical atmosphere. Not only locals but also many tourists visit, and the entire city of Atami is enveloped in the festival’s energy.
Faith as a God of Abstinence
Kinomiya Shrine is unique in Japan for being known as a “god of abstinence.” Interpreting “Kinomiya” as “Imi no Miya” (Shrine of Abstinence), many people visit to pray for abstinence from alcohol and other abstinences.
Many stories exist of people who, having resolved to quit drinking, visited Kinomiya Shrine and, relying on its divine blessings, successfully achieved their goal. People praying to break various bad habits, not just alcohol, but also tobacco, gambling, and other vices, visit this shrine.
Outdoor Ceremonies such as Weddings and Groundbreakings
Kinomiya Shrine performs various ceremonies marking important life milestones, including Shinto weddings, groundbreakings, first shrine visits for newborns, and Shichi-Go-San (a traditional Japanese rite of passage for children).
Shinto Weddings
Shinto weddings held in the historic main hall are conducted in a solemn and dignified atmosphere. A wedding ceremony watched over by the great camphor tree will be a lifelong memory. Since reservations are required, we recommend contacting us as soon as possible if you wish to have a wedding.
Various Prayers and Supplications
We also accept various prayers and supplications, such as for business prosperity, family safety, traffic safety, and success in examinations. Prayers and supplications are accepted from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
We also perform off-site ceremonies (outdoor ceremonies) such as groundbreakings and roof-raising ceremonies, and we accept requests not only from Atami City but also from neighboring areas.
Access and Visiting Information
Access by Train
Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR Ito Line “Kinomiya Station”
Kinomiya Station, the next station to JR Atami Station, is the nearest station. Exit the station and turn right, then follow the signs. You will arrive at the shrine’s torii gate in about 5 minutes.
Approximately 18 minutes on foot from JR “Atami Station”
It is also within walking distance from Atami Station. Enjoying a stroll through the streets of Atami is also a good option.
Using the Bus
If using the bus from Atami Station, it is convenient to take a bus bound for Jikkoku Pass/Izusan and get off at the “Kinomiya Shrine” bus stop.
Access by Car and Parking
By Car
Approximately 1 hour from Tomei Expressway “Atsugi IC” via the Odawara-Atsugi Road, or approximately 50 minutes from Tomei Expressway “Numazu IC” via the Izu Jukan Expressway.
Parking
Kinomiya Shrine has a parking lot for visitors. However, congestion is expected on holidays and during the annual festival period, so we recommend using public transportation. Since parking is limited in terms of available hours and number of spaces, we recommend checking the official website in advance.
During peak times, using nearby paid parking lots or parking in a coin-operated parking lot near Kinomiya Station and walking is also an option.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
Entry to the shrine grounds is free, and there is no admission fee. While worship is possible 24 hours a day, the reception for receiving amulets and prayers is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (prayer reception until 4:30 PM).
At night, you can see the illuminated camphor tree, enjoying a different, more magical atmosphere than during the day.
Trends in Visitor Numbers and Reasons for Popularity
In recent years, Kinomiya Shrine has seen a significant increase in visitors, linked to the rising popularity of Atami as a tourist destination. In 2008, the number of visitors to Kinomiya Shrine was approximately 157,000, but by 2017, it had increased to approximately 688,000—more than four times the original number in less than 10 years.
This popularity is attributed to several factors, including the presence of a large camphor tree that is popular on social media, the development of new facilities such as cafes and tea houses within the shrine grounds, and the overall improvement of Atami as a tourist destination. In particular, there has been an increase in younger visitors, making it a rare example of a traditional shrine that also possesses modern appeal.
Tourist Attractions Around Kinomiya Shrine
When visiting Kinomiya Shrine, exploring the surrounding tourist attractions will make your Atami sightseeing experience even more fulfilling.
Atami Plum Garden
Known as the earliest blooming plum garden in Japan, Atami Plum Garden is within walking distance of Kinomiya Shrine. During the plum blossom festival from January to March, it is bustling with many tourists.
Kiunkaku
Kiunkaku, a representative cultural property of Atami, conveys the villa culture of the Taisho and Showa eras. The harmony between the beautiful Japanese garden and the Western-style building is magnificent.
Atami Sun Beach
This artificial beach is within walking distance of Atami Station and is bustling with swimmers in the summer. It’s a beach full of tropical atmosphere with palm trees lining the shore.
MOA Museum of Art
Located on a hill in Atami, this museum boasts a collection of Oriental art, including national treasures and important cultural properties. Its location, offering panoramic views of Sagami Bay, is also a major attraction.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting
Clothing
While there are no specific dress code requirements, it is advisable to avoid revealing or overly flashy clothing, as this is a sacred place. Also, since the ground around the large camphor tree can be uneven, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but photography inside the main hall and during prayers is prohibited. Please be considerate of other visitors and avoid causing any inconvenience. Many people take commemorative photos in front of the large camphor tree, so please be considerate of others.
Busy Seasons
The shrine is particularly crowded during the first three days of the New Year, the annual festival period (July 14th-16th), Golden Week, and the autumn foliage season. For those who wish to visit at a leisurely pace, weekday mornings or evenings are recommended.
The Four Seasons of Kinomiya Shrine
Kinomiya Shrine is a charming shrine that displays different expressions throughout the year.
Spring (March-May)
With the arrival of fresh greenery, the trees within the shrine grounds are dyed in vibrant green. During cherry blossom season, the cherry trees planted within the grounds bloom beautifully.
Summer (June-August)
The highlight is the annual “Kogashi Festival” in July. The greenery deepens, and the vitality of the large camphor tree is felt even more strongly during this season.
Autumn (September-November)
The trees in the shrine grounds change color, creating a beautiful contrast with the green of the large camphor tree. The pleasant weather makes it one of the best times to visit.
Winter (December-February)
The shrine is bustling with visitors for the New Year’s pilgrimage. In the crisp winter air, the quietly standing large camphor tree exudes a mystical atmosphere.
Summary | Special Experiences at Kinomiya Shrine
Kinomiya Shrine is a rare shrine with a 1300-year history, yet it continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern visitors. The overwhelming vitality emanating from the over 2,000-year-old camphor tree, the divine virtues of the deity of good fortune and auspiciousness, and the modern facilities built within the grounds harmonize to offer visitors a special experience.
When you visit Atami, be sure to stop by Kinomiya Shrine, feel the power of the camphor tree, and offer your prayers in peace. You will surely find a healing time that will make you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and gain new vitality. This shrine, which offers various blessings such as matchmaking, health and longevity, and business prosperity, is sure to be a highlight of your Atami trip and make your journey truly special.
