What Is "Morihisa Shrine," a Power Spot on Yakushima? A Comprehensive Guide to Goshuin, Access, and Highlights
What Is "Morihisa Shrine" on Yakushima?
A Power Spot Where the Legend of the Heike Clan Lives On
Morihisa Shrine, quietly nestled in the Anbo district of Yakushima, is,A "power spot" dedicated to Taira no Morihisa, a warrior of the Taira clanIt is!
In this column, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the history, highlights, how to get there, and even the ins and outs of collecting temple stamps.
Sightseeing on YakushimaHidden GemIf you're looking for [...], please feel free to use this as a reference.
◆For those interested in matchmaking spots
◆For those who want to plan a sightseeing itinerary in the Awa area
◆For those looking for hidden power spots on Yakushima
Recommended Tours on Yakushima
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The History of Morihisa Shrine and the Legend of Taira no Morihisa
Taira no Morihisa, the warrior after whom Morihisa Shrine is named, is the subject of a legend passed down on Yakushima IslandAn Interesting Legend...remains.
First, let’s take a look at the history and legends that form the roots of the shrine.
Who Was Taira no Morihisa, a Fugitive of the Taira Clan?
Taira no Morihisa wasFrom the late Heian period to the early Kamakura periodHe was a military commander of the Heike clan who distinguished himself during that period.
It is said that after the Taira clan was defeated at the Battle of Dan-no-ura, they fled to Yakushima.
He fell ill on his way to Yakushima, andThe fact that he was buried hereThat is said to be the origin of Morihisa Shrine.
Two Legends Passed Down on Yakushima
In fact, there are several legends surrounding the founding of Morihisa Shrine.
First, after being buried near the mouth of the Utakumi River (now the Itogo River),Divine RevelationOne theory is that it was moved to its current location by [...].
Another theory holds that he died while fleeing from Iwo Jima to Yakushima; both stories have been passed down as tragic tales of the Heike clan.
Top 3 Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Although the grounds of Morihisa Shrine are compact,Must-See SpotsThere are plenty of them!
Be sure to check it out when you visit the shrine.
Male and Female Black Seabream
One thing that really catches the eye on the temple grounds is,Over 100 years oldThese are the two akou trees that are said to be...
Because their roots are intertwined and grow as if supporting one another, they are called the “Married Couple Akou Trees.”
In the local area,matchwood tree (esp. Lombardy poplar, Populus nigra var. italica)It’s also well-loved as a place to pray for success in love, and many visitors come here with that wish in mind.
Yakusugi Cedar Torii Gate and Worship Hall
The torii gate and worship hall at Morihisa Shrine are typical of Yakushima,Yakushima cedar (esp. one over 1000 years old)It is made using [...].
Due to the deterioration of the old worship hall, which was built in 1977, a reconstruction project is being carried out by local residents, andCompletion ceremony in September 2024We celebrated [...].
Since this building is steeped in the island’s history and the sentiments of its people, we recommend taking a good, long look at it!
Ema Made from Yakusugi Wood
Another distinctive feature of Morihisa Shrine is that,Ema made from Yakusugi cedarIt is.
It is said that this is the only place on Yakushima where you can dedicate an ema made of Yakusugi cedar.
If you write down your wish and offer it,Memories of a Special Visit to the ShrineIt looks like that's going to happen!
Directions and Parking Information
Morihisa Shrine is located in the Awa district of Yakushima,Harumaki HamletThe following is located in the
Since it’s easily accessible by both public transportation and car, be sure to check that as well.
Address and Directions
Morihisa Shrine is a short drive from Yakushima AirportAbout 20 minutes, by car from Awa PortAbout 5 minutesIf you're using the Tanegashima-Yakushima Kotsu bus, it's just a short walk from the "Morihisa Shrine" bus stop.
Since it's quite close to the prefectural road and there's a signpost,Easily Accessible SpotsIt is.
◆Directions: About a 20-minute drive from Yakushima Airport
About Parking
Morihisa Shrine itself does not have a dedicated parking lot; the adjacentHarumaki Welfare CenterIt is common to use the parking spaces there.
Since this is a community facility, please be considerate of others and follow the rules when using it.
Can I get a goshuin?
Points to Keep in Mind When Visiting the Shrine
Some of you may be wondering, “Can I get a goshuin at Morihisa Shrine?”
What You Should Know Before Visiting the Shrineimportant pointPlease check this out as well.
Status of Goshuin Issuance
To get straight to the point, Morihisa Shrine is an unmanned shrine and does not have a permanent shrine office.
Therefore, basicallyI cannot receive a goshuin.It is considered to be a
If your goal is to collect temple stamps, I recommend visiting with this in mind.
Visiting Hours and Etiquette
The shrine grounds are open to the public at all times, but they are a sacred place managed by local residents.
Be quiet while visiting the shrine, take your trash home, etc.Basic EtiquetteLet's follow the rules.
Since it gets dark in the evening, we recommend visiting during the daylight hours.
Places to Visit Together
Power Spots on Yakushima Island
Places to visit along with Morihisa Shrine,A Representative Power Spot on YakushimaI'll also introduce that.
Why not take a trip to experience the energy of the entire island?
Jomon cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
The Jomon Sugi is considered a symbol of Yakushima.
Discovered in 1966, it is one of the largest Yakusugi trees, with an estimated age of2,170–7,200It is estimated that...
In its form, which has watched over the island since time immemorial,Overwhelming vitalityIt's right here!
◆Directions: About a 30-minute drive from Yakushima Airport to the Arakawa trailhead; about 9 to 10 hours on foot from the trailhead
Jomon Cedar Trekking Tour
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▼Click here for our recommended Jomon Sugi tours▼
Shiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)
Shiratani Unsui Gorge is,A Moss-Covered, Enchanting ForestIt's a trekking spot with expansive views.
The scenery, reminiscent of the world of Studio Ghibli films, is brimming with the mysterious charm unique to Yakushima’s primeval forests.
Just walking through the crisp, fresh air,Purification of Body and MindYou'll get to experience that kind of feeling.
◆Directions: About a 35-minute drive from Yakushima Airport
Hakutani Unsui Gorge Trekking Tour
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▼Click here for our recommended Shiraya-Unsui Gorge tour▼
Awa River (in Nara Prefecture)
The Awa River, which flows near Morihisa Shrine, also,Places to Experience Yakushima’s Natural EnergyIt is.
The clear streams flowing down from the mountains are packed with the island’s vitality!
As I listened to the murmur of the river,A Quiet MomentWhy not give it a try?
Access: 15 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
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▼Click here for recommended Awa River tours▼
Nagata Inaka Beach
Nagata Inakahama is,One of Yakushima's largest beaches, featuring a stretch of white sandIt is.
Rare even on a global scaleLoggerhead Sea Turtle Nesting SiteIt is known as a special place where you can experience the wonders of life up close.
It has become a popular spot where visitors can experience the majesty and power of nature.
◆Access: 40 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Let's go see the sea turtles!
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▼Click here for recommended tours that include Inaka Beach▼
Mt Miyanoura
The highest peak in Kyushu,Elevation: 1,936 mMount Miyanoura, which stands tall, has long been an object of mountain worship for the island’s residents.
At the summit stands a shrine that serves as a center of worship, and it is cherished as the sacred peak that watches over the island.
Once you reach the summit,A Panoramic View of Yakushima’s Magnificent NatureA special experience awaits you!
◆Access: About 1 hour by car from Yakushima Airport to the Yodogawa Trailhead; about 10 to 11 hours on foot from the trailhead to the summit
Mt. Miyanoura Trekking Tour
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▼Click here for recommended Mt. Miyanoura tours▼
About Morihisa Shrine
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Since Morihisa Shrine is unstaffed, you generally cannot receive a goshuin stamp there. If your purpose is to collect goshuin stamps, we recommend also considering other shrines, such as Yakushima Taisha and Masukyu Shrine.
Morihisa Shrine does not have its own parking lot, so visitors typically use the parking spaces at the adjacent Harumaki Welfare Center. Since this is a community facility, please be considerate when using it.
Since the temple grounds are compact, it typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes to pay your respects and look around. We recommend combining your visit with a tour of the nearby tourist attractions.
summary
Morihisa Shrine is associated with the tragic tale of the Heike clan and屋久杉の温もりを感じられる屋久島の隠れたパワースポットです！
夫婦アコウや屋久杉の絵馬など、見どころもたくさんあります。
無人の神社のため、御朱印はいただけませんが、その分静かに向き合える参拝ができるはずです。
周辺スポットとあわせて、屋久島観光のプランにぜひ組み込んでみてくださいね。
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
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