Yamanashioka-jinja, Fuefuki, Shinto shrine in Japan
Yamanashioka-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Fuefuki city, set amid trees and nature on quiet grounds. The main hall dates to the Muromachi period and is registered as a cultural property, while the grounds feature a large sacred tree whose roots wrap around stones.
The shrine was founded over 2000 years ago to protect people from sickness and disasters, originally standing on Mount Uruma. During the reign of Emperor Seimu, it was moved to its current location in Fuefuki, where it has served as an important place of local worship ever since.
The shrine is deeply tied to the local name Yamanashi, which originated from the pear grove that once stood near its previous location. Visitors can experience traditional Kagura dances during spring festivals, where performers in colorful costumes tell stories from ancient Japanese myths.
The shrine is easily reached on foot from the nearby railway station or by car, with a small parking lot available. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and expect uneven ground, as the grounds are surrounded by nature and feature traditional pathways.
A rare Fuji vine grows on the grounds and blooms from late April to mid-May, protected as a natural monument. This botanical feature makes the site a destination for nature lovers and offers a unique seasonal sight that highlights the connection between the shrine and its natural surroundings.
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