Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine

Together with Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine and Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, this shrine constitutes the "Kumano Sanzan". The two deities, Kumano Hayatama and Kumano Fusumi, are worshipped as the husband-and-wife deities and are believed to bring good luck in the areas of matchmaking and family safety. The shrine is located in the middle of the city, but the grounds are lush with greenery and are home to a 1,000-year-old sacred tree called the "Nagi tree," and it was customary for Kumano pilgrims to take its leaves home to pray for safety along the way. Today, amulets in the shape of a nagi leaf are awarded and are popular among worshippers.