Takeo Jinja no Okusu (The Great Camphor Tree of Takeo Shrine)

Overview

Towering in the depths of the Takeo Shrine grounds, this sacred tree is estimated to be 3,000 years old. With a tree height of 30 meters, a trunk circumference of 20 meters, and a branch span of 33 meters, it is a massive tree ranked 7th in the national giant tree rankings. The enshrined deities (kami) of Takeo Shrine include the primary deity Takeuchi no Sukune, along with Takeo no Mikoto, Emperor Naka no Ōkimi, Empress Jingū, and Emperor Ōjin. The 'Meoto Hinoki' (Married Cypress) located in front of the main hall (honden) is also popular as a symbol of matchmaking, allowing the two great sacred trees—the camphor and the cypress—to stand side by side.

Highlights

• ・Estimated age of approximately 3,000 years; ranked 7th among Japan's largest trees
• ・Tree height 30m, trunk circumference 20m, branch span 33m
• ・The 'Meoto Hinoki' (Married Cypress) for matchmaking in front of the main hall
• ・The symbol of Takeo Shrine