Kumano shrine

Kumano shrines (熊野神社, Kumano jinja) are a network of Shinto shrines primarily dedicated to the three Kumano mountains: Hongū (本宮), Shingū (新宮), and Nachi (那智). These three grand shrines, collectively known as the Kumano Sanzan (熊野三山), are located in Wakayama Prefecture on the Kii Peninsula of Japan. Kumano shrines are characterized by their association with mountain worship (Shugendō), nature, and healing.

Worship at Kumano dates back to ancient times, pre-dating the arrival of Buddhism in Japan. The syncretic blend of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs flourished at Kumano, resulting in a unique religious landscape. The mountains themselves are considered sacred, and pilgrimage to the Kumano Sanzan became a significant religious practice for people from all walks of life, particularly during the Heian and Kamakura periods. Emperors, nobles, and commoners alike undertook the arduous journey along the Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trails.

Today, there are thousands of Kumano shrines throughout Japan, often identified by the yatagarasu (八咫烏), a three-legged crow, which serves as a symbol of guidance and divine will in the Kumano tradition. This crow is said to have guided Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first emperor of Japan, on his journey.

Each of the Kumano Sanzan enshrines different deities and possesses distinct characteristics:

• Kumano Hongū Taisha (熊野本宮大社): Originally located at Ōyunohara (大斎原), a sandbank at the confluence of the Kumano River, it was moved to its present location after a devastating flood in 1889. It enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Ketsumiko-no-Ōkami, among others.
• Kumano Hayatama Taisha (熊野速玉大社): Located in Shingū, it enshrines Izanami-no-Mikoto and Hayatama-no-Ōkami. It is known for its sacred tree, Nagi-no-Ki, whose leaves are considered to bring good fortune.
• Kumano Nachi Taisha (熊野那智大社): Located near Nachi Falls, the tallest waterfall in Japan, it enshrines Izanami-no-Mikoto and Fusumi-no-Mikoto. The nearby Seiganto-ji temple is closely linked to Nachi Taisha, demonstrating the syncretic nature of the site.

The Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trails, leading to the Kumano Sanzan, are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." These trails offer a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual history and continue to attract pilgrims and hikers from around the world.