Complete your journey at this ancient shrine with ties to the battleship Yamato, walking beneath a long avenue of cryptomeria trees
About this spot
Counted among Japan's oldest shrines, this shrine of the official shrine registry (shikinen) enshrines the Great Divine Spirit of Yamato. According to tradition, this deity was once enshrined in the imperial palace alongside Amaterasu Ōmikami, then transferred here by Emperor Sujin. The main attraction is the straight cryptomeria-lined approach path stretching about 270 meters. This length matches almost exactly the full length of the battleship Yamato, making it famous as a shrine with ties to the Yamato—a branch of the deity was enshrined aboard the warship, and the grounds feature a commemorative tower honoring the ship and her crew. Every April 1st, a festival called the "Yamato matsuri hajime" (the beginning of Yamato's festivals), also known as chancha-matsuri, is held. Walking slowly beneath the approach path in the evening light filtering through the trees allows you to savor the lingering feeling of completing a 9 km walk—a fitting finale.
Tips
After your visit, JR Manyo Mahoroba Line's Nagae Station is about a 5-minute walk away, with excellent access to return. You can easily head back toward Tenri or Nara, or toward Sakurai. Admission is free, and shrine seals are available at the shrine office. The Manyo Mahoroba Line runs infrequently, so check your return train schedule in advance for a smooth departure.
Best time to visit
Allow about 50 minutes. Evening light creates long shadows through the cryptomeria avenue, making it beautiful and perfect for completing your day's journey
Access & map
〒632-0057 Tenri City, Nara Prefecture, Shinsen-machi 306
Model course featuring this spot
Tenri Yamabe-no-Michi: Ancient Shrine and Burial Mound Walking Tour
Nara
Explore features & model courses
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