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牛床詣所: A Sacred Site of Yakushima Mountain Worship

Discover 牛床詣所, a sacred site on Yakushima where ancient mountain worship traditions come to life in a serene forest setting.

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牛床詣所 (Ushidoko moisho) is a serene and historically significant Shinto shrine on Yakushima Island, Kagoshima, Japan. It served as a place where women and children would greet men returning from mountain pilgrimages, as women were once forbidden from ascending the mountains themselves. The site features numerous stone monuments dedicated to various prayers, reflecting the island's unique mountain worship traditions.

A brief summary to 牛床詣所

  • Miyanoura, Yakushima, Miyanoura, Kumage District, Kagoshima, 891-4205, JP

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on potentially uneven and mossy surfaces.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine for a full day of exploring Yakushima's natural beauty.
  • Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the stone monuments and the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    牛床詣所 is located a short walk from the main road. From the parking area, it's a 1-2 minute walk through a quiet forest path to the shrine entrance. Follow the signs for 牛床詣所 from the parking area.

  • Public Transport

    From Miyanoura Port, take a bus towards Shiratani Unsuikyo. Get off at the 牛床詣所 bus stop. The shrine entrance is a short walk from the bus stop. Bus fares are typically around ¥400-¥600 depending on the distance.

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Discover more about 牛床詣所

Nestled in the tranquil forests of Yakushima, 牛床詣所 (Ushidoko moisho) offers a glimpse into the island's rich history of mountain worship. This sacred site traditionally served as a place of prayer and a welcoming point for those returning from pilgrimages to the island's central mountains, including Mt. Miyanoura. In the past, women were prohibited from participating in the arduous mountain treks. Instead, they, along with children, would gather at 牛床詣所 to offer prayers and welcome the men returning from their spiritual journeys. This practice highlights the deep reverence for nature and the spiritual significance of mountains in Yakushima culture. Today, visitors can explore the peaceful grounds of 牛床詣所, where around 60 stone monuments stand as testaments to the prayers offered over generations. These monuments are dedicated to various wishes, including protection from epidemics, bountiful harvests, and safety. The site provides a tangible connection to the past and an opportunity to appreciate the enduring spiritual traditions of Yakushima. The moss-covered Nio statues are recognized as a cultural asset of Yakushima Town.

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