Kumano Hongu Shrine appears in Japanese Myth.

Kumano Hongu Shrine was established by Amenohoakari no Mikoto, the brother of Ninigi no Mikoto. His descendant, Takakuraji served the first Emperor Jimmu. Also at the same moment, Yata crow, the messenger of Takamimusuhi no Kami, and the crow lead them to Yamato.

The 10th Emperor Suijin enshrines the gods of Yamato, and established the grand shrines at Ise and Kumano.

The 13rd Emperor Seimu set up the land of Kumano, and addressed the descendant of Takakuraji rule the land of Kumano.

This story tells that Kumano Hongu Shrine is also belong to the line of Japanese gods. It has high respect of Sun. Yata Crow is also the god of Sun. So, it presents the resurrection of Sun, and salvation of the future.

Legend also said, Ketsumimikonoookami taught the technology of shipbuilding, this shrine had been also respected as the guardian of seamen.


The remarkable note is that records says the emperors and their relatives worships 100 times this shrine during Heian period.

This shrine and its Pilgrimage Routes that called Chuhenro are registered as UNSECO World Heritage Site.

In 1889, there was huge flooding and many of historical building were lost. The shrine was moved to the top of hill located near. Some of remaining buildings were also moved to the current location. The former location is called Oyunohara, now.

It is very important to worship all three Kumano Grand Shrines. Kumano Shrine helps salvation of our three lives. Hayatama Shrine helps the salvation of the pervious life. Nachi Shrine helps the salvation of the current life. Hongu Shrine helps the salvation of next life. Kumano Shrines are highly respected for over thousands of years.

Matsuri
Yata crow safe driving Matsuri: Jan 2.
Yata crow Shinji: Jan 7.
Reitaisai: April 15.
Nagoshi no harae Matsuri: June 30

Title of UNESCO
"Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range."



Official Web: http://www.hongutaisha.jp/