Kumano Nachi Taisha Shinto Shrine, which is a component of 'Kumano Sanzan' meaning three main Kumano shrines, and adjacent Seigando-ji Buddhist Temple constitute a world heritage of 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range'. The origin of them is one of the oldest religious institutions in Japan. They were originally built in 317. Japanese people have long believed Shinto and Buddhism at the same time though, just one time when Japan's modernization started in the middle of the 19th century, many old Buddhist temples and statues through out the country were destroyed by the locals because the then Government denied Buddhism. However, Seigando-ji fortunately survived this movement. The pictures show the 'Haiden' worship hall of Kumano Nachi Taisha, and the 'Hondo' main hall of Seigando-ji.
Licensed tour guide, travel consultant,
Masahisa Takaki.
