Place of worship • 733 Imai, Soni, Uda District, Nara 633-1212, Japan
Kadoboku Shrine quietly resides in Sonimura, Nara Prefecture, as a historic shrine. Stepping into its precincts, one is enveloped in an atmosphere that feels like time stands still. Remarkable are the giant cedars, said to be hundreds of years old. Among those registered in the Ministry of the Environment's database of giant trees, the largest measures 4.80 meters in circumference and reaches 50 meters in height. These cedar giants stand as if to guard the divine realm, presenting an overwhelming spectacle.
Kadoboku Shrine is listed as an Enki-shikinaisha, with its founding attributed to the era of Emperor Yuraku. The main deity worshipped here is Amatsukoyane-no-mikoto. The shrine's deeply rooted history conveys the forms of faith from ancient to medieval Japan.
Located by the Shorenji River, Kadoboku Shrine harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding mountains and river flow. Especially in front of the south torii, there's a prefecturally designated natural monument, the Ohatsuki Ginkgo, that shines golden in autumn. This scenery is truly the quintessential Japanese landscape where the shrine and nature unite.
The shrine is conveniently located along a prefectural road, about 400 meters northeast of the Sonimura village office, making access relatively easy. There are public restrooms and parking lots arranged in front of the torii, making it ideal for a visit along a drive or a bike tour. When visiting, take a moment to gaze at the solemn presence of the cedar giants and enjoy a tranquil time in this sacred space steeped in ancient holiness.
Kadoboku Shrine, including its unique reading of the name (Kadofusa), is a place filled with novel surprise and discovery for many. In a shrine where history, nature, and faith harmonize beautifully, why not spend some peaceful moments away from the hustle and bustle of daily life?