Kumano Hayatama Taisha

It’s a bit walk from the train station and most shops are closed for business but it’s still nice to visit. The temple itself is magnificent and the surrounding area is beautiful.

One of the three Yatagarasu shrines in the area. Yatagarasu is a three-leg crow; a guiding god.

Probably the least exciting one out of the three Kumano Taishas, it is nonetheless an important one on the trail often being the end point on the journey for ancient pilgrims ultimately reach the ocean. The kumano trail actually hugs the shoreline which is nothing short of spectacular. Coming from the mountains then ocean must've awe inspiring, making this shrine location special. But modern day railroad has made it much more accessible, and visitors could hardly appreciate the full inspirational aspect. But this is where the sacred three clawed crow landed after all (the big rock is a short walk away from the Taisha itself).

Worth a stop if you are in the area. There is a free parking lot near by. Lovely food stall around too. I don’t know whether it’s because of some sort of festival or it’s regular there.

Great place. If you take the walk, be prepared for a slightly higher difficulty. The nature stones are really slippery in rain, but you can easily get close via bus. Main problem might be fog. I recommend the pagoda for a great photo of the waterfall

One of Kumano Sanzan (3 greatest shrines in Kumano area). This area has been a site of worship since the 3rd century. There are some small shops near the entrance.

From the shrine being the part of world heritage I expected a bit more but it's in my opinion the least amazing out of there. Apparently there is also a pilgrimige route which has some nice sights unfortunately I didn't have the time to walk it. Parking next to it and the shrine grounds are free.

The second of the three Yoshino Kumano, Kumano Kodi Pilgrimage trail shrines. It is a beautiful shrine, very similar to the one in the mountains.