Azusawakejinja-no-Okusu, Giant camphor tree at Kinomiya Shrine, Japan
The Azusawakejinja-no-Okusu is a colossal camphor tree located within the grounds of Kinomiya Shrine, standing 26 meters tall with an enormous trunk. It ranks among Japan's largest trees of its species and remains protected as a national cultural treasure.
The tree received designation as a National Treasure of Japan in 1933, cementing its status among the country's most valued natural sites. This official recognition established it as a key part of Japan's cultural heritage protection efforts.
The tree holds spiritual meaning for visitors who walk around it as part of local devotional practices. This tradition reflects how ancient natural sites serve as places of connection and respect in Japanese culture.
The tree stands within the Kinomiya Shrine grounds, which are accessible to visitors daily and feature designated resting areas. Plan to arrive early in the day to enjoy the area peacefully and spend time walking around the tree without crowds.
The tree's massive trunk hosts its own ecosystem with distinct microclimates that support different plant species within its structure. This internal network of life transforms it into a self-contained natural habitat far beyond a typical tree.
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