Gaze up at an ancient monument cedar tree said to be 2,300 years old and take a deep breath
About this spot
Standing within the grounds of Sugawara Shrine deep in the foothills beyond Yamanaka Hot Spring town, this is a nationally designated natural monument cedar tree. With an age estimated at 2,300 years, a trunk circumference of approximately 11 meters, and a height of some 54 meters, its magnificent form is also affectionately known as 'the Great Cedar Witnessed by the Emperor.' A floating wooden boardwalk protects the tree's roots along the approach path, and as you walk among the towering cedar grove, you cannot help but hold your breath at its overwhelming scale. Conclude your day with this timeless beauty—a different kind of natural splendor from the valley.
Tips
About a 10-minute drive from Yamanaka Hot Spring town. A few parking spaces are available in front of the shrine gate. Please walk only on the wooden boardwalk along the approach, as it protects the tree's roots. At the gate-front tea house, the local specialty grass dumplings are popular—if open, make sure to grab some as a souvenir. The shrine grounds are a tranquil sacred space, so it's best to spend your time here slowly and quietly.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour. Evening slanting light bathes the cedar grove in mysterious beauty.
Access & map
〒922-0138 Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Yamanaka Hot Spring Hayakano-cho To-10-1
Model course featuring this spot
Yamanaka Hot Spring: Tsurushoji Valley Walk via Korogi Bridge and Ayatori Bridge
Ishikawa
Explore features & model courses
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