The oldest shrine in the Kumano area, Asuka Shrine is a real eye opener! One thing I like about shrines is that I never know what to expect, especially in terms of color. Some shrines are very plain and simple. Others like this one are brilliantly colorful. We visited on a late day in May and really enjoyed the shrines glimmering beauty.
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Brilliant Asuka Shrine, Shingu
Along the Kumano Kaido pilgrimage route

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
Side view, with the most holy area in the back

Natural and charming

Asuka Shrine entrance
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A dragon at the purification font

The font and dragon from the front

A peek into the shrine, all the way back to the most holy of holy

Simple, compact, lovely

This shrine has a very clean look to it

This smaller shrine next to the main shrine was also lovely

Even the type of stones used here are well thought out

Perfect harmony

Ring the bell and say a prayer
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Justin Velgus
3 years ago
That vermillion color really pops! Great find.
1 comment in total
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