Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails

The principal shrine of the Kumano Sanzan trinity, located in Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture. Situated along the Kumano River on the Kumano Kodo trail, it houses a sacred tree believed to be 3,800 years old. After major Heisei restoration work, it maintains the dignity of an ancient sacred site. It serves as the spiritual center of Kumano worship throughout Japan, drawing countless pilgrims.

Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall at 133 meters in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture. Worshipped as the sacred body of Kumano Nachi Taisha, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.' The combination of the three-story pagoda and waterfall is one of Japan's most iconic landscapes.

A Kegon Buddhist temple in Nara, Nara Prefecture, and the sect's head temple. Founded in the 8th century by Emperor Shomu. The Great Buddha Hall is the world's largest wooden structure, housing a 15-meter-tall Great Buddha. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998, attracting approximately 3 million visitors annually.

Historic site of an 18th-century Dutch trading post in Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture. Functioned as Japan's sole European contact point during the period of national isolation, facilitating Western cultural transmission. Dutch trade occurred for 220 years from 1634 to 1853. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. Symbolizes pre-Meiji international exchange.

Collective cultural heritage centered in Nara Prefecture, the ancient capital during Japan's Nara Period (710-794). Contains Todai-ji, Nara Park, and numerous historic temples and shrines. Registered as UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara' in 1998. Concentrating Japan's national treasures and important cultural properties, it represents a premier Japanese cultural tourism destination.

A shrine in Nara established in the Nara period. Founded in 768, it was revered as the tutelary deity of the Fujiwara clan and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The harmonious landscape of its vermillion-painted structures integrated with Nara Park makes it an emblematic symbol of Nara. Its year-round rituals and the famous lantern ceremony attract attention from around the world.

A signature waterfall in Nachi-Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, ranking among Japan's three greatest falls with a 133-meter drop. Revered as the object of worship for Nachi Taisha, which honors the water deity. Surrounded by trees over 800 years old, this sacred space has been a pilgrimage destination for ascetics and devotees since ancient times.