Partners Information: Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is nestled deep in the heart of a lush forest a few kilometres from Takamori Town in Minami Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to Izanami and Izanagi, the first Shinto kami (gods) to marry, so many people come here to wish for their happiness in marriage.
The path up to the shrine is lined with around 100 moss-covered lanterns, creating a truly mystical sight. It’s beautiful to visit any time, but is especially atmospheric on a rainy day when covered in a light mist, or in the morning when sunlight filters through the leaves.
It has been gaining popularity after being featured in the manga ‘Hotarubi no Mori e’ which translates to ‘Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light’. The manga was published in 2002 and was made into a short animated film in 2011.
More information
- Visit Kyushu | Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
- Takamori Town | Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine (JP only)
