Gosho Shrine, Shinto shrine in Japan
Gosho Shrine is a small Shinto shrine in Yugawara with simple wooden buildings and old trees that shape the surroundings. The most striking feature is a massive sacred tree with roots that spread wide and a trunk measuring over 50 feet around.
The shrine was built around 850 years ago during Emperor Tenji's reign when Yugawara was beginning to grow. A local story tells of leader Sanehira Jiro Doi praying at this place before a battle, showing the shrine's early importance in regional history.
The shrine honors several deities, including the sun goddess Amaterasu and gods of longevity and hot springs. Visitors leave small offerings and coins as signs of their prayers and gratitude at this place.
The shrine is easily reached by bus from Yugawara Station with a ride lasting just a few minutes to the nearby stop. Admission is free and a visit typically takes around half an hour, though comfortable shoes are recommended due to uneven paths.
The sacred tree has a section of its trunk reinforced with concrete due to decay, yet it remains a symbol of endurance and strength. This place is also connected to regional legends, showing how nature and local history are deeply woven together.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
