Oyunohara Travel Guide
Free Guide: Discover Oyunohara, the former sacred grounds of Kumano Hongu Taisha, and witness Japan's largest Torii gate, a symbol of spiritual heritage.
A brief summary of Oyunohara
Discover Oyunohara, the former sacred grounds of Kumano Hongu Taisha, and witness Japan's largest Torii gate, a symbol of spiritual heritage.
Oyunohara, the former site of the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, holds deep spiritual significance in the Kumano region. A devastating flood in 1889 led to the shrine's relocation, but the towering torii gate, the largest in Japan, marks the entrance to this sacred ground. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and reflect on the history of this revered site.
Opening hours
- Every dayOpen 24 hours
Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.
- Address
- 1 Hongucho Hongu, Tanabe, Wakayama 647-1731
- Phone
- Website
Getting there
Walking
Public Transport
Taxi
Discover more about Oyunohara
Overview
Oyunohara, located at the confluence of the Kumano and Otonashi Rivers, was the original location of the Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the three grand shrines of Kumano. Legend says that the Kumano deities descended onto a giant oak tree here. For centuries, pilgrims on the Kumano Kodo routes have been drawn to this sacred site.In 1889, a severe flood swept away many of the shrine buildings, which were then relocated to their present location. Today, Oyunohara is marked by the Otorii, Japan's largest torii gate, standing at an impressive 33.9 meters tall and 42 meters wide. Erected in 2000, this steel structure symbolizes the division between the secular and spiritual worlds.Visitors can still see two small stone shrines on the expansive grounds, remnants of the original grand shrine. The site is considered a 'power spot,' attracting those seeking spiritual energy and connection to the past. During special occasions like the Kumano Hongu Taisha Spring Festival and the Yata-no-Hi Matsuri Fire Festival, the torii gate is illuminated, creating a spectacular sight.
Evendo Review Centre
Guest reviews
Explore Oyunohara on the map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Oyunohara, mapped for you.
Get your free copy of our complete guide to Oyunohara, delivered straight to you.
Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.
Already have an account? Sign in
Your Oyunohara guide is ready.
We'll send it to · Not you? Sign out

Getting your guide ready…
We are putting together a fresh copy of the Oyunohara guide. This can take up to a minute.
This can take a few moments. If your browser asks, choose Allow so the download can start. You'll find the guide in your Downloads folder.
Nothing happened? Download it again
Sorry, the guide is taking longer than usual. Please try again in a minute, or get it by email instead.
Unlock the best of Oyunohara
Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.
Other nearby places you may find interesting
The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.
-
Dotonbori Experience Osaka's vibrant nightlife, dazzling lights, and diverse culinary scene in the heart of Dotonbori, home to the iconic Glico Running Man. -
Tsūtenkaku Experience panoramic views and vibrant history at Osaka's iconic Tsutenkaku Tower in the heart of the retro Shinsekai district. -
Osaka Castle Explore Osaka Castle: a historic landmark with a museum, panoramic views, and a beautiful surrounding park in the heart of Osaka. -
Kansai International Airport Experience seamless travel at Kansai International Airport, a modern gateway connecting Osaka and the Kansai region to the world. -
KIX Observation Hall Sky View Experience the thrill of flight at KIX Observation Hall Sky View: panoramic views, aviation exhibits, and family fun at Kansai International Airport.
Swipe for more places
More to explore near Oyunohara
Do you manage this location?
Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.
Explore more
Explore more of Kinki (Kansai)
Discover Kinki (Kansai), Japan's cultural heartland, where ancient traditions meet modern vibrancy in iconic cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.
Explore Kinki (Kansai)
Explore more of Japan
Discover the harmony of tradition and modernity in Japan, where ancient temples and cutting-edge technology coexist in perfect balance.
Explore Japan