Takachiho Shrine, Shinto shrine in Takachiho, Japan.
Takachiho Shrine is a Shinto site in the town of Takachiho in Japan, where wooden structures stand among cedar trees in dense forest. The unpainted buildings blend into the natural setting and follow classical Japanese construction principles.
The shrine was established around 1900 years ago and belongs to the oldest religious sites in the region. Over the centuries it remained an important place for religious ceremonies and mythological traditions.
The site takes its name from the surrounding region and hosts regular evening dance performances that retell mythological stories through masks and music. Visitors can watch as performers in historical costumes portray scenes from ancient tales.
From Takachiho bus station it takes about 15 minutes on foot through residential streets and along a main road to reach the entrance. Admission costs a fee for adults, while younger visitors pay slightly less.
Two intertwined cedars nearby are considered a natural monument that visitors walk around to gain fortune in romantic relationships. The custom is especially popular with couples who circle the trees together.
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