草部吉見神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Kusakabe Yoshimi Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Takamori situated unusually below its main torii gate, accessible by descending approximately 130 stone steps. The grounds contain a main worship hall, auxiliary buildings, purification basins, and a sacred cedar tree with a trunk circumference of about 7.7 meters that commands reverence.
The shrine was established in Japan's earliest period, predating the nearby Aso Shrine, according to legend founded by Hiko Yai no Mikoto, the first son of Emperor Jinmu. The original site was called Kusabakemura and later renamed Kusakabe, derived from a story about diverting water and constructing buildings with grass-thatched roofs and walls.
The shrine's name comes from the tradition of covering its structure with grass and natural materials, reflecting a humble connection to the land. This practice shows how local people have maintained their spiritual relationship with the place over many centuries.
Visitors can reach the shrine by car or on foot from nearby towns, with the journey from Takamori Station taking about 23 minutes, and parking and facilities are available. The grounds have two restrooms, one equipped to serve visitors with disabilities, ensuring comfortable access for everyone.
The shrine is one of Japan's three major down-in shrines with the unusual feature of having its main building positioned below the entrance torii gate, a rare architectural arrangement. This distinctive layout is believed by visitors to enhance the sacred nature of the place and sets it apart from conventional shrine designs.
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