Why visit Kinomiya Shrine?Imagine standing before a living tree that has been growing since before the time of Christ.Amazingly, you don't need to trek deep into a remote forest to find it. Kinomiya Shrine is located just a short trip from Tokyo (about 45 minutes by Shinkansen to Atami).This shrine is a rare destination where ancient history meets modern comfort. It is famous not only for its 2,100-year-old sacred tree but also for its stylish cafes and photogenic spots. Whether you seek spiritual energy, longevity, or just a relaxing break, this is a must-visit spot in Atami.The Great Camphor Tree: Alive Since B.C.The highlight of your visit is undoubtedly the Great Camphor Tree (Okusu) located behind the main hall.Designated as a natural national monument, this tree is over 2,100 years old. To put that in perspective, this tree started growing before the Roman Empire reached its peak.Standing before its massive trunk, you can feel an overwhelming sense of life force. It is famous as a powerful spiritual spot with a specific legend:"If you walk around the trunk once, your life will be extended by one year."It is also known for granting wishes for health and matchmaking (en-musubi).How to worship at the Okusu:Pray: Stand in front of the tree and offer a prayer of gratitude.Wish: Make a specific wish in your heart (keep it a secret).Walk: Walk around the tree trunk counter-clockwise (enter from the right). Take your time to feel the history.(Note: The path around the tree is paved and flat, making it easy to walk for everyone.)Modern Charm: Cafes and Photo SpotsWhat sets Kinomiya Shrine apart is its modern, welcoming atmosphere. The grounds have been beautifully renovated to offer style and comfort.Stylish cafes: Visit Saryo Hoko to enjoy sweets made with mugikogashi (roasted barley flour), an ingredient historically offered to the gods.(Tip: Try the mugikogashi soft serve. Note that the cafe usually closes around 4:30pm.)Photo spots: The shrine is designed for photography. Look for stands with a camera icon—these are set up at the best angles so you can take perfect photos without a selfie stick. Don't miss the heart shape made of fallen leaves near the main hall.Visitor Guide: Access & LogisticsKinomiya Shrine is easily accessible from Atami Station. You can choose the method that best fits your style.Option 1: Walk (Enjoy the city atmosphere)If you enjoy walking, you can walk from Atami Station. It takes about 15–20 minutes (approx. 1.2 km).The route is slightly uphill, but it takes you through retro shopping streets and residential areas, allowing you to experience the local atmosphere of Atami.Option 2: Bus (Direct from Atami Station)From JR Atami Station, go to bus stop no. 2 and take a bus bound for Motohakone or Nishiyama. Get off at Kinomiya Shrine Mae. The ride takes about 10–15 minutes.https://visitatami.com/en/access/atami-station-bus-stops(Note: The sightseeing Yu-Yu-Bus is currently out of service. Please use the local bus.)Option 3: Train (Closest station)Transfer to the JR Ito Line at Atami Station. It is just one stop (3 minutes) to JR Kinomiya Station. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to the shrine.Luggage tip: Coin lockers at Kinomiya Station are limited. We recommend leaving large suitcases in lockers at Atami Station.Manners & EtiquetteShrines are sacred places. While Kinomiya Shrine is welcoming, showing respect is important.Before approaching the main hall, you will see a water pavilion called chozuya to purify yourself. Don't worry, you don't need to drink the water.Purify: Rinse your left hand, right hand, then mouth (spit out gently, do not swallow), then rinse the handle.Respect the roots: Do not step on the roots of the trees.Prayer: Throw a coin gently into the box, bow twice, clap twice, pray, then bow once more.Basic Information of Kinomiya ShrineAddress: 43-1 Nishiyama-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 413-0034Phone: +81-557-82-2241Website: Kinomiya Shrine Official Website (Japanese Website)%3Ccenter%3E%0A%3Ciframe%20src%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%2Fembed%3Fpb%3D!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d6528.505670212636!2d139.067881!3d35.100397!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x6019be6e1f861df3%253A0x3a9048f244a7319b!2sKinomiya%2520Shrine!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sjp!4v1748853851276!5m2!1sen!2sjp%22%20width%3D%22800%22%20height%3D%22400%22%20style%3D%22border%3A0%3B%22%20allowfullscreen%3D%22%22%20loading%3D%22lazy%22%20referrerpolicy%3D%22no-referrer-when-downgrade%22%3E%3C%2Fiframe%3E%0A%3C%2Fcenter%3E