Kumano Hongu Taisha

Kumano Hongu Taisha is the sacred center of the three Kumano shrines, revered since ancient times as the "place of resurrection." During the Heian period, emperors and retired emperors made multiple pilgrimages to Kumano in such numbers that it was called the "ant-like procession to Kumano." The principal deity is Keto mi Mago Okami (Susanoo no Mikoto), and the shrine was relocated to its present location from the Great Yuji on a sandbar in the Kumano River. This shrine also marks the endpoint of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, warmly welcoming pilgrims who have walked the long sacred path. With the eight-legged crow as its sacred messenger, it continues to heal many people with its power of guidance and regeneration.