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Cultural Properties , Natural Treasures , Preservation Tree

Kumano Shrine's Two Japanese Cedars

Kumano Shrine, in Tsuyanagi Community, is sometimes also called Two Japanese Cedars Shrine. The two Japanese Cedars tower over both sides of the stairs leading into the shrine. The trees have been designated as natural treasures by the prefecture. The trees are said to be over 800 years old. The tallest is 45m, while the shorter one is 40m in height. The larger cedar's trunk is 7.8m around, while the smaller one is 6.4m. In 1995, it was chosen as one of "Kagawa's Top 30 Giant Trees".

It is said that just after Kumano Shrine was built, a prestigious local family the Tsutsui's, donated the trees. They continue to be cared for and protected by local residents.

Designated a natural treasure by the prefecture on May 12, 1956

Komino's Oak Tree

Komino's Kumano Shrine is located on the side of the road a little ways up from Konotaki Waterfall (Rainbow Falls). It is easy to find with its' gigantic gingko and cedar trees. The oak is on the left within the shrine grounds. The root of the tree acts as a small path, leading to Kasuga Shrine nearby. The tree has grown at a slant, and looks like an 8m- bow. At 4m above ground, the trunk has divided into two sections; with one of the sections unfortunately starting to rot and die. On the mountain side of the tree, there is a big hole in the trunk. The small mountain behind the shrine has been designated as a natural treasure by the prefecture. Many trees can be enjoyed in the shrine's forest, but the white wax found on the back of the oak trees creates a beautiful snowy white. At the beginning of summer, white flowers bloom on the small branches.

Designated a natural treasure by the prefecture on March 23, 1976

Tsuyanagi's Zelkova Tree

Tsuyanagi's Zelkova Tree in Okuyama, Miki Town, seems as though it is embracing a rock. In 1989, a small shrine was built to celebrate the tree. The Zelkova Tree has been protected as a tree of god and survived strong winds and lightning strikes. Unfortunately it has been left with a short, plump appearance, but it is the biggest Zelkova Tree in Kagawa. The earth and sand have eroded away allowing visitors to observe both living and dead roots.

Visitors are also able to make their way inside the trunk and have enough room to spread their hands out. In late fall, visitors can enjoy the autumn colors of the maple tree that has made her home here.

Designated a preservation tree by the prefecture on March 28, 1995

Renjoji Temple's Inumaki and Furan

In Renjoji Temple (close to Miki Junior High School), there is a gigantic 23m-Inumaki Tree. On the branches of the Inumaki Tree, pretty snow-white flowers bloom in June and July these are called Furan, a member of the orchid family. Visitors can enjoy their sweet orchid fragrance. (Designated a prefectural natural treasure)

Jokoji Temple's Gingko Tree with Trumpet-shaped leaves

This tree is said to be over 600 years old. Standing in front of the main hall of the temple, this gigantic tree is 20m in height and has a trunk circumference of 18m. This tree is special because among its leaves, 10% of them are trumpet-shaped. These trumpet-shaped leaves are "living fossils". These living fossils are said to be the original form of gingko leaves and show how the leaves have evolved over 200 million years. (Designated a prefectural preservation tree)

Wanikawa Shrine's Fir Trees

There are two big fir trees on the left side of the grounds of the Wanikawa Shrine in Ido, Miki Town. One tree's trunk has split into two. It has been designated as a prefectural preservation tree. The trees are said to be over 150 years old.

Designated a preservation tree by the prefecture on December 28, 2006

Last Updated: February 7, 2011