Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine

Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine is located a few kilometers away from the hot spring of Katsuura, which is by the coast. It is one of three Kumano shrines along with Hayatama Taisha and Hongu Taisha. This holy site started out from Shintoism until Buddhism was introduced in the 6th century into Japan. Buddhism spread rapidly, but instead of fighting for religious supremacy the temple decided to take the long route of being harmonious with the belief system. For a long time the shrine functioned on a religious foundation that melded Shinto and Buddhist practices. The buildings of the Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine have architecture that reflects both religions.

From the Kumano Nachi Taisha you can see the tallest waterfall in Japan known as Nachi Waterfall. It Is said the deity of the waterfall is enshrined on the premises. Its powerful appearance is one of the reasons that the earliest Japanese people worshipped the waterfall and why it continues to be a popular spectacle. The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes visits the three shrines with the Nachi Grand Shrine as the main destination. On this route you can traverse to each location enjoying the nature surrounding these holy sites and be imbued with spiritual energy.