Kumano Nachi Taisha

Kumano Nachi Taisha is a Shinto shrine on the slope of Mount Nachi in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, that incorporates the Nachi Falls into its spiritual complex. The buildings stand on multiple levels among tall cedars and form a permeable compound through which visitors walk along paths, stairs, and open courtyards while the sound of falling water fills the space.

The shrine developed from the worship of Nachi Falls by pilgrims who came here since the fifth century to address natural forces. Over time it became one of the three Kumano Sanzan sites and formed a center for religious travel along the ancient routes through the Kii Peninsula.

Pilgrims carry torch shrines (Ogi Matsuri) down the steep mountain path during the Nachi-no-Hi Matsuri festival to honor the ancient bond between the sacred waterfall and the gods. The ceremony takes place every year on July 14th and shows how the community understands the mountain as a living bridge between water, forest, and worship.

Visitors can enter the compound from early morning until late afternoon and explore the different buildings on their own, with the upper temple area requiring some uphill walking. Those who wish to visit the treasure hall should plan for opening hours and admission, while access to the outer grounds is free.

An ancient camphor tree on the grounds holds a small altar at its base that is still used for offerings today, showing the fusion of tree worship with shrine practice. Visitors can peer through an opening in the trunk and experience the connection between plant and ritual directly.

Location: Nachikatsuura

Inception: 5 century

Part of: Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, Kumano Sanzan, Shinbutsu Reijō Junpai no Michi

Website: https://kumanonachitaisha.or.jp

GPS coordinates: 33.66857,135.89049

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:37