What other travelers are saying about Kinomiya Shrine
A serene shrine that’s home to a 2000 years old camphor tree which legends says will add one year of age every round you walk around it. What I like is there are phone stands in front of several photo spots for selfies and even a platform that allows people to go up to take pictures with the ancient tree up close, and also a shop for lucky charms which have a lot of different designs.
I honestly thought this was going to be just another shrine in rural Japan but I even ended up spending more time than I did in most other shrines before. It is well kept and the fact that it is a 20-minute walk away from Atami station (very steep by the way) doesn't make it too crowded. The bamboo entrance and the main area are as other shrines standard but they have their own special touch. The center of the shrine is the main tree (thus, Kinomiya), which creates an amazing environment around it. You can find a shop, a café and a sweets/dessert stall next to the main tree, where you can try matcha or other traditional sweets in a calm, nice place.
A lovely shrine with a relaxing atmosphere and a 2k+ year old huge tree that you can just stare and wonder at for ages. There are some nice dessert and drinks shops around too so it’s worth a visit after the short but steep hike up to the shrine.
The Atami-Shi region offers breathtaking scenery and rich costal views, making it a must-visit sightseeing spot. The temple is diligently maintained to provide a delightful experience for visitors. Whether you're exploring the picturesque landscapes or immersing yourself in the region's historical charm, visiting the temple promises an unforgettable journey.
