Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
上色見熊野座神社
Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu is a quiet shrine in the forest of Takamori, south of Mount Aso. Its mossy approach is lined with 97 stone lanterns, and photos of it became popular online as an 'entrance to another world'. Behind the shrine is Ugetoiwa, a large rock with a hole through it. A local legend says a retainer of the god Takeiwatatsu kicked the hole open.
Visitor information
- Getting there
By car, about 10 minutes from Takamori Station (Minamiaso Railway).
By bus, about 16 minutes on the Shikimi loop line.
Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.
Good to know
- There is parking for about 30 cars; large buses can also park.
- For questions, contact the Takamori Tourism Promotion Organization (tel. 0967-62-2300).
Tips for Muslim visitors
- The path up to the shrine is lined with about 100 moss-covered lanterns. It is described as especially atmospheric on a rainy day.
- Shinto shrines are open to everyone. Bowing, clapping and washing at the purification basin are optional; you can simply look around.
- Shrines are usually busiest at New Year and during festivals. Early morning is often the calmest time to visit.
- Charms, fortune slips and votive tablets are religious items. You do not need to buy or use them.
- Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Kumamoto and the verified places to pray nearby.
- Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.
Prayer times in Kumamoto
Today (5 Nov 2026)
- Fajr05:04
- Sunrise06:38
- Dhuhr12:03
- Asr15:01
- Maghrib17:23
- Isha18:47
Times are calculated for Kumamoto City. Times may differ elsewhere in Kumamoto.
Places to pray near Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
We have not verified a place to pray near here yet. Many large stations, airports and department stores in Japan have prayer rooms.
Halal food near Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
We have not verified a halal restaurant near here yet. Until then, these guides can help you choose food safely:
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Map
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Photo: Ann Lee, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sources (Checked 5 Nov 2026): kumamoto.guide, japan.travel