Dazaifu Tenman-gū no Ōkusu, Natural monument at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Japan
The Dazaifu Tenman-gū no Ōkusu is an ancient camphor tree on the grounds of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and ranks among the region's most important natural monuments. Its massive branches spread across a large area and define the character of the sacred space.
The shrine was founded in 905 to honor scholar Sugawara no Michizane, and this tree has endured through all the centuries since. It became a witness to the religious devotion that has been directed at the site from its inception.
The tree holds special meaning for those who visit seeking academic blessings, as worshippers often touch its bark and offer prayers nearby.
You can visit the tree year-round by arriving at Dazaifu Station and following the shrine's main path. The route is straightforward and the tree is impossible to miss once you enter the grounds.
The trunk of this tree consists of multiple stems that have fused together over the centuries, creating an intricate pattern. This unusual structure makes it botanically interesting and sets it apart from other large trees in the area.
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