A Historic Tree Rooted in Local Tradition
Kamo no Okusu stands on the former grounds of Wakamiya Shrine, where it has long been revered as a symbol of the local community. Traditions associate the tree with the era of the Genpei Wars, the late-12th-century conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans that helped shape Japanese history.
The tree was designated a National Natural Monument in 1926. In 1956, it received the higher status of Special Natural Monument under Japan’s cultural property protection system, recognizing its exceptional natural and cultural value.
A Giant with Remarkable Dimensions
With an estimated age of approximately 1,000 years, Kamo no Okusu is impressive not only for its longevity but also for its extraordinary proportions. Its broad canopy spreads across the surrounding landscape, while the massive trunk conveys the strength and resilience of a tree that has survived for centuries.
Measurements taken by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment on November 1, 2007, recorded the following dimensions:
Estimated age: Approximately 1,000 years
Root circumference: 23.35 meters
Trunk circumference: 16.72 meters, measured according to the Ministry of the Environment’s standards for giant trees
Height: 26 meters
Canopy spread: 52 meters from east to west and 42 meters from north to south
These remarkable measurements help explain why the tree is regarded as one of the region’s most important natural attractions. Standing nearby, visitors can appreciate the scale of its trunk and the vast reach of its branches.
Conservation and the Tree’s Enduring Vitality
As development progressed around the tree during the modern era, concerns arose about its declining vitality. In response, Tokushima Prefecture and the local town worked together to protect its growing environment, including purchasing surrounding rice fields and improving the soil around the tree.
These conservation efforts helped support the tree’s recovery and preserve it for future generations. Today, Kamo no Okusu remains a powerful symbol of the relationship between the local community and its natural surroundings.
A Place of Quiet Reverence
A small shrine stands near Kamo no Okusu, reflecting the longstanding belief that the tree is more than simply an impressive natural specimen. For generations, local people have regarded it with reverence, and the site continues to offer visitors a glimpse into the spiritual traditions associated with ancient trees in Japan.
Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the tree without touching its trunk or disturbing its protected surroundings. Keeping the area clean and approaching the nearby shrine respectfully helps preserve the peaceful atmosphere of this special place.
Facilities and Seasonal Scenery
The surrounding area has facilities to make visits more comfortable, including Okusu House, a rest area where visitors can take a break, and public toilets. The setting also offers opportunities to enjoy the changing character of the landscape throughout the year.
Spring brings fresh green leaves, while summer offers welcome shade beneath the expansive canopy. Autumn adds seasonal color to the surroundings, and winter lends the tree a more solemn appearance. Each season provides a different perspective on this ancient natural landmark.
How to Visit Kamo no Okusu
By train: The tree is approximately a 20-minute walk from Awa-Kamo Station on the JR Tokushima Line. The walk provides an opportunity to enjoy the rural scenery of Higashimiyoshi along the way.
By car: Kamo no Okusu is conveniently accessible from the Yoshinogawa Smart Interchange on the Tokushima Expressway. Parking is available near the site, making it a practical stop for travelers exploring the area by car.
Experience the Grandeur of a Living Monument
Kamo no Okusu offers a memorable encounter with the scale and longevity of Japan’s natural heritage. Its vast branches, immense trunk and centuries of history invite visitors to pause and appreciate the quiet power of the natural world.
For those traveling through Tokushima’s Oboke, Koboke and Iya Valley region, this remarkable tree is a worthwhile detour. A visit combines natural beauty, local history and traditional reverence in one peaceful setting, offering a deeper appreciation of the cultural landscape of Shikoku.