Takeo Shrine — Attraction in Takeo

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Takeo Shrine武雄神社) is a historic Shinto shrine located in Takeo, Saga Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its deep connection to the region's history and culture, dating back to its founding over 1,300 years ago. The shrine is dedicated to the deities of war and protection, making it a place where locals and visitors alike come to pray for safety, success in endeavors, and good fortune.

One of the most iconic features of Takeo Shrine is the ancient camphor tree (樟, Kusunoki) located within its grounds, believed to be over 3,000 years old. This massive tree is considered sacred and is a symbol of longevity and strength. The shrine is surrounded by serene natural beauty, with the Takeo Hot Springs (武雄温泉) nearby, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual and physical rejuvenation.

Takeo Shrine is also the starting point for the climb up to Mount Mifuneyama (御船山), where the famous Mifuneyama Rakuen garden is located, offering stunning seasonal landscapes. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or spiritual practices, Takeo Shrine offers a rich experience reflective of Japan's deep...

We're all here for the tree, right? Takeo Shrine is beautiful. I was quite taken by the white painted walls and light blue accents, having never seen that coloring on a shrine before. Also, the guardian statues were really unique looking (again, I spend most of my time in the Kyoto area, and this was quite unlike what I have seen there). But, but but but, if you read the reviews, it becomes quite clear that most people are coming to witness the 3,000 year old Camphor tree that can be accessed via a path behind the shrine. And that tree should not be missed! If I'm being quite honest, I didn't spend long at the shrine as my main purpose was visiting the tree. Isn't that what was worshipped before shrines existed anyway (water, sun, trees?). As I upload pictures, I realize that I don't even have one of the front of the shrine (I felt at the time I didn't really deserve to take one as I had made a beeline for the path leading to the giant tree). Apologies Takeo Shrine san, next time I will pay proper respects, but I will still be there to...

There are 3 main attractions in this location.

The first is near the entrance, which is a pair of trees connected together by a big branch. There is a rope in the middle where people tie a pair of tiny bells to wish either romantic love, career success, the third one I'm not sure.

The second is the shrine itself. It looks neat and proper, nothing too special. You buy the tiny bells here to put on the rope tied to the trees near the entrance.

The third one is further inside. It's a 3,000 year old tree.

There is a bus available going to this location, which departs every 90 minutes i.e. 12:31, 14:06, 15:36. Otherwise, you can also catch a taxi, but when we did this option there was only 1 taxi waiting for us. Maybe because we went on a...