Hello, fellow travel lovers!
Today, let me introduce you to Shiobara Hachiman Shrine, nestled in the tranquil woods of Nasushiobara. This hidden gem beautifully blends serenity and grandeur, offering a perfect escape to soothe your soul.
A quiet torii gate standing subtly by the roadside!
Just a short step from where you park, the torii gate of Shiobara Hachiman Shrine quietly stands alone. On this particular day, gentle rain fell, enveloping the surrounding trees and the gate in a dewy embrace, creating an almost magical atmosphere.
Passing through the torii gate, you’re immediately greeted by a moss-covered dragon water basin. “Ah, braving the rain, are you? Well done!” it seems to say—a rather considerate dragon (or is it just my imagination?).
The picture-perfect scenery of the pond and the shrine!
A bridge spans the pond within the shrine grounds, leading to a small shrine at its center.
The scenery is simply breathtaking! It feels as though time flows more gently in this little corner of the world.
The Main Event: The Reversed Cedar!
Here it is, the star of Shiobara Hachiman Shrine—the iconic "Reversed Cedar." Unlike typical cedars, its branches hang upside down, as if the tree is proudly declaring, "Look, I'm doing a handstand!" And at 1,500 years old, it’s nothing short of astonishing!
Standing beneath the tree, you can feel the weight of its ancient history and the sheer power of nature. From the back, its immense size becomes even more striking—especially when you compare it to a person standing nearby. This is one mighty tree!
Power Up with a Prayer Session!
Under the watchful gaze of the 1,500-year-old Reversed Cedar, I start by praying for the safety and well-being of my family.
Next, I make sure to pray for safe travels—an absolute must. And while I’m at it, I even throw in a wish for world peace. Before I know it, I’ve asked for so much that I almost feel like apologizing to the dragon water basin for being so demanding (haha).
Finally, I wrap it up with a heartfelt, "Thank you for letting me visit and pray!"
Shiobara Hachiman Shrine is a serene spot where you can truly relax amidst nature. Be soothed by the dragon water basin and feel the strength of the Reversed Cedar. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss—come and experience it for yourself!
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
＊＊TabiJun＊＊
Duration of stay here: 30 minutes
