Kamou Hachiman Shrine (蒲生八幡神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This shrine is said to have been founded in 1123, when the lord of Kamou-in invited the deity of Usa Hachiman Shrine, and its grounds are home to the Great Camphor Tree of Kamou (蒲生の大クス), said to be Japan's largest giant tree. It is roughly 1,500 years old, with a trunk girth of 33.5 meters and a height of about 30 meters, and is designated a Special National Natural Monument. As evening falls, food stalls and vendors for the Kamou Summer Festival line up, filling the area with festival excitement. As the finale to a day exploring the giant tree and the old town, secure a comfortable spot to sit and fill up on festival food.

Tips

Reachable by car from central Kamou-cho. On the day of the festival, nearby roads and parking lots get crowded, so allow plenty of time to get there. Most food stalls take cash only, so bring small change.

Best time to visit

About 2 hours 30 minutes. The festival is liveliest around sunset.

Access & map

2259-1 Kamikutoku, Kamou-cho, Aira City, Kagoshima Prefecture 899-5302