Located about a 10-minute drive from our inn, Kumano Taisha Shrine—often called the “Ise Shrine of Tohoku”—is a renowned place for en-musubi (love and matchmaking), especially famous for its “Three Hidden Rabbits” that grant wishes.

Kumano Taisha (Kumano Taisha Shrine)

With over 1,200 years of history, it is one of Japan’s “Three Great Kumano Shrines.”

At the entrance to the shrine approach stands a massive ginkgo tree, an iconic landmark.

It is said to have been planted on the order of Minamoto no Yoshiie and is designated as a Prefectural Natural Monument. In autumn, its brilliant golden leaves create a stunning sight.

Passing the great ginkgo and climbing the stone steps through a cedar forest, you’ll arrive at the serene grounds of Kumano Taisha.

Nestled quietly within the woods, the main hall features the oldest thatched-roof shrine architecture in Yamagata Prefecture.
Stepping into the solemn atmosphere of the sacred precincts brings a sense of purification to both body and spirit.

From January, the shrine hosts the Sakura Sangu ceremony, during which drifting sakura petals and fresh snowflakes add a beautiful touch to the grounds.
(The sakura-like snow flurries can be enjoyed until late March.)

After offering your prayers, be sure to walk around to the back of the main hall, where a deep stillness surrounds the area.

There, three hidden rabbit carvings await.

No one knows exactly when they were created, but legend says that if you find all three rabbits, your wish will come true and happiness will follow.

Most visitors can find two, but the final rabbit is notoriously hard to spot.

It is also said that asking someone where the third rabbit is, or revealing its location to others, will diminish its blessing.

Even the internet offers almost no clues…
Which only adds to the mystery and romance of the search.

If you discover the third rabbit, keep the secret in your heart—and let your wish come true.

Kumano Taisha Shrine
Address: 3476-1 Miyauchi, Nanyo City
Phone: 0238-47-7777
About 15 minutes by car from our inn; parking available
Website: http://kumano-taisha.or.jp/