The “Big Ginkgo Biloba and the approach to the shrine” dyed in autumn colors is wonderful! The autumn leaves of “Shukuta Shrine” are truly “natural art” [Interview date: November 26, 2018]

``A row of ginkgo trees colored with autumn leaves'' is often used in memorable scenes in dramas and movies.
There are famous spots scattered all over the country, but there are also ``picture-worthy spots'' within Mie Prefecture!

The large ginkgo biloba and autumn foliage approach to Sekita Shrine in NabariCity is usually at its best from late November to early December, creating a wonderful landscape. Its beauty has gradually spread through word of mouth, and in recent years it has become a popular spot for couples and families with children!

As you head towards Shorenji Dam from National Route 165, which connects TsuCity and NabariCity, you will immediately see the torii gate of Sekita Shrine. I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of scenery the autumn leaves will bring.

[Interview date: November 26, 2018]

Once you pass through the torii gate, there is a long approach road that goes straight to the back!
This is the rumored autumn leaves. The trees that cover the road are changing colors, creating a picturesque scenery!

Focus on the tree dyed bright red!
It's really colorful and feels like it cleanses your soul. It's also nice to enjoy the different colors of each piece.

As you walk along the approach, you will come across a large ginkgo tree, and its fallen leaves will turn the approach into a golden carpet. It's easy to see why so many people come to see this scenery!

At the time of our interview, cute children and their mothers were playing happily in the perfect location.

The worship hall is located at the back of the approach.
Tsukuda Shrine is also known as the ``Nanto Kasuga Taisha Okumiya.'' Approximately 1,250 years ago, Kashima Omikami came from Hitachi Province (currently Ibaraki Prefecture). This shrine was enshrined during a visit to Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Yamato Province (now Nara Prefecture).

A huge tree called ``Kamigaki'' stands tall in the forest behind the main shrine.
It is said that Kashima no Okami came from Hitachi Province on a white deer and left a persimmon branch stuck up there to serve as a whip.
The light shining through the trees adds to the divine atmosphere.

When I left the forest with sacred persimmons and walked along the public road, I discovered a maple tree peeking out from within the shrine grounds.
The contrast with the surrounding greenery is so beautiful!

I wanted to know more about the history of Tsukuda Shrine, so I took a tour around the grounds.
The ``yose lanterns'' made of natural stone are impressive and give you a sense of the depth of the history of this shrine.

There are several deer next to the “Yosetoro”!
Legend has it that Kashima Okami came riding on a white deer, so he is still revered as a messenger of the gods.

The torii with the words ``Kagamiike Shrine'' written on it also seems to have some history.
On the opposite bank of the river that flows beyond the torii gate, there is a ``mirror pond'' where the image of the god was reflected during the relocation of Kashima Okami, and it is said that when this pond becomes cloudy, Nara's Sarusawa Pond also becomes cloudy.

Hearing the various legends makes you feel closer to the shrine.

The shrine grounds are full of ``autumn foliage scenery that makes you want to take photos.''
From this angle, the bright yellow color catches the eye.

When I looked back at the approach I had walked, I was able to take what I thought was the best shot of the day!
The sunlight at dusk also adds to the beauty.

The autumn leaves near the torii gate will take on a different look if you change the angle or time of day!
Once again, I realized that autumn leaves are nature's art.

The president, Mitsuo Iwaki (right), and the vice president, Kiyonobu Takehara (left), gave us a humorous and entertaining tour of everything from recommended spots for autumn leaves to the history of the shrine.

They said, ``This shrine garden welcomes visitors with its colorful colors throughout the four seasons.''
When you have a good encounter, the memories of your trip will become more deeply engraved in your heart.

The autumn leaves spot I visited with great expectations turned out to be more beautiful than I imagined! Recommended for a wide range of generations, from children to the elderly.

[Sakuda Shrine]
Address 2162 Natsumi, NabariCity
Phone number 0595-64-0735
Access: Approximately 4 minutes by bus from Kintetsu Nabari Station
Parking available (about 10 spaces)

*The published contents are as of November 2018.
Please check the status of autumn leaves before going out.