Unagihime Shrine: A Tranquil Oasis in Yufuin

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Discover tranquility at Unagihime Shrine in Yufuin, a serene escape steeped in local legend and surrounded by ancient trees and peaceful forest.

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우나기히메신사

Unagihime Shrine, nestled in a serene corner of Yufuin, offers a peaceful escape from the bustling town center. Dedicated to the 'Eel Princess,' the shrine is surrounded by towering trees and a calming atmosphere, providing a unique cultural experience.

A brief summary to 우나기히메신사

2220 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Yufuincho Kawakami, Oita, 879-5102, JP
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Local tips

Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride to the shrine to fully appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
Visit during daylight hours to best experience the shrine's natural beauty and explore the grounds.
Look for the six subsidiary shrines scattered throughout the area, including the Ogosha Shrine with its ancient cedar tree.

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Getting There

Walking

From Yufuin Station, walk south along the main street for about 15 minutes. Turn left onto a smaller road, following signs for Unagihime Shrine. The shrine will be on your right. The walk is generally flat and easy.
Bus

Take a local bus from Yufuin Station towards Kinrin Lake. Get off at a stop near the shrine (check with the bus driver for the closest stop). From the bus stop, it's a short walk to Unagihime Shrine. Bus fare is approximately ¥150-200.
Taxi

Taxis are available at Yufuin Station. A taxi ride to Unagihime Shrine takes about 5 minutes and costs approximately ¥700-¥1000.

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Unagihime Shrine, officially known as Unagi-hime Jinja, is a hidden gem in Yufuin, offering a tranquil retreat from the lively tourist streets. The shrine's name, meaning 'Eel Princess Shrine,' stems from a local legend where an eel deity helped control floods in the area, allowing people to settle and cultivate the land. In gratitude, the villagers built this shrine to honor the goddess. Located south of Yufuin's main thoroughfare, the shrine is set within a sacred forest of over 33,000 square meters. The grounds feature several smaller shrines, with Ogosha Shrine being particularly noteworthy for its ancient, thousand-year-old Japanese cedar tree. The main hall is surrounded by a small canal, adding to the serene atmosphere with the gentle sound of flowing water. Visitors can also see the remains of monumental cedar trees that fell during a typhoon in 1991; their stumps are preserved and displayed on the grounds. Unagihime Shrine provides a unique glimpse into local folklore and offers a quiet space for contemplation amidst nature's beauty.