蒲生之樟, Natural monument camphor tree at Kamouhachiman-jinja, Japan
The camphor tree at Kamouhachiman-jinja shrine is an enormous specimen that grows to about 30 meters in height. Its trunk is exceptionally thick with a natural hollow inside large enough to accommodate several people.
This specimen is approximately 1500 years old and received national monument status in 1922. The designation reflects its importance in preserving Japan's natural heritage.
The tree stands within Kamouhachiman-jinja shrine grounds, where local residents participate in traditional autumn festivals every November 3rd.
The tree grows on shrine grounds and is accessible to visitors, though the inner hollow can only be viewed from the outside. Photography and observation from this vantage point is possible, though it does not allow interior access.
For centuries, people used the spacious hollow interior as a shelter and gathering place. This practice reveals how important the tree was to local life and how it shaped community traditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
