Let’s enjoy a cultural stroll in Yasuoka.
You will be embraced by the mythical, but still refreshing atmosphere and become a part of untouched Japanese paysage.
Here I introduce you two special places: Kin-no-suwa Shinto shirine (金野諏訪社) and Karakasa Station (唐笠駅).
Kin-no-suwa Shinto shirine (金野諏訪社)
Firstly, we visit a venerable Shinto shrine named Kin-no-suwa Shinto shirine (金野諏訪社) which is widely believed to be established in the 16th century.
According to the most supported theory, one of the powerful warriors in the Takeda clan built this shrine to pray for continued military fortune and the prosperity of his descendants.
Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine (若宮八幡宮)
The above is a photo of Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine (若宮八幡宮) one of the main shirines in Kin-no-suwa Shinto shirine (金野諏訪社).
Hachiman Shrines are dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and therefore, military clans were eager to build its temple, praying for the success in wars.
Interestingly, Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine (若宮八幡宮) has two bays and the main room is divided into two: the Hachiman Shrine on the left and the Wakasakura Shrine on the right.
The building has simple structures, such as square pillars with no head beams, and a simple design with few decorative elements. Another distinctive feature is the style, with shelves and a shingled floor without any edging.
Since the shrines are in good condition and highly valuable, they were designated as Important Cultural Properties. Thanks to a roof covering from the beginning, they are well preserved with little wind erosion overall. The current roof covering has also been designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Karakasa Station (唐笠駅)
Next is Karakasa Station (唐笠駅).
It’s an unmanned station with one single platform and one track.
Although it has no station building, you can find a relatively large waiting room nearby. Because there is a boat dock for the Tenryu River Cruise (天竜川ライン下り) in fromt of the station. The station is regularly filled with the people who gather to enjoy the river rafting and becomes very lively.
Let’s take a leisurely ride down the Tenryu River on a Japanese-style boat.
The Tenryu River Cruise (天竜川ライン下り) offers a spectacular view of the natural beauty of Tenryu Gorge that can only be experienced here.
If you are interested in this activity, don’t hesitate to contact us.
