Ushitora Shrine
A serene shrine in Onomichi, famous for its 900-year-old camphor tree and unique ropeway views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Ushitora Shrine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene shrine in Onomichi, famous for its 900-year-old camphor tree and unique ropeway views.
"The 900-year-old camphor tree is one of the most impressive trees you'll ever see."
🎯 Ropeway Access is Key
Take the ropeway up to Senkoji Temple; the shrine is right at the station. Easy access! :ticket:
📸 Great Photo Spot
Perfect for capturing the ropeway cars against the shrine's backdrop. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 900-Year-Old Camphor Tree
Shrine grounds
A majestic, ancient camphor tree, a natural monument, dominates the shrine grounds, offering a sense of timelessness.
Onomichi Ropeway Views
Near the torii gate
The shrine offers unique photo opportunities with the Onomichi Ropeway cars passing overhead.
Movie and Anime Filming Location
Shrine grounds
This shrine has served as a filming location for notable films and anime, adding a layer of cultural significance.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Access and Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ropeway Access is Key
Take the ropeway up to Senkoji Temple; the shrine is right at the station. Easy access! :ticket:
📸 Great Photo Spot
Perfect for capturing the ropeway cars against the shrine's backdrop. :camerawithflash:
🍃 Serene Atmosphere
Visit on a weekday for a tranquil experience with the ancient camphor tree. :leaf:
📜 Goshuin Available
You can get a unique 'goshuin' (temple seal) here, a lovely souvenir. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ropeway Access is Key
Take the ropeway up to Senkoji Temple; the shrine is right at the station. Easy access! :ticket:
📸 Great Photo Spot
Perfect for capturing the ropeway cars against the shrine's backdrop. :camerawithflash:
🍃 Serene Atmosphere
Visit on a weekday for a tranquil experience with the ancient camphor tree. :leaf:
📜 Goshuin Available
You can get a unique 'goshuin' (temple seal) here, a lovely souvenir. :scroll:
💰 Affordable Fortune
Draw a fortune for just 100 yen. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the majestic 900-year-old camphor tree and the unique sight of the ropeway passing overhead. The shrine's peaceful atmosphere and its status as a filming location add to its charm. Some note that parking can be tricky, and it's best enjoyed on a weekday to avoid crowds.
"One of the most impressive trees you'll ever see is this temple's 900 year old camphor tree - easy to find at the cable car station for Senkoji temple and lookout point. There are some beautiful designs of the structures and rood ornaments here & you can often find sleeping cats in the altars."
jj walsh
"This is a rare shrine where the ropeway passes overhead. The large camphor tree is majestic. The quiet atmosphere is calming. After praying, we continued up to Senkoji Temple. It seems you can also get a goshuin (temple seal), which looks like a written note."
Nocti-LUX
"I visited on a weekday.
This shrine is located in front of the Onomichi Cable Car Station. The large tree in the front yard is famous, said to be over 900 years old.
The aforementioned tree is famous, but I personally think it's a great spot to take photos of the cable car going up to Senkoji Temple.
It's not far from the cable car station, so if you have time, I recommend visiting."
최영걸
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ushitora Shrine is conveniently located at the Onomichi Ropeway station. You can take the ropeway up to Senkoji Temple, and the shrine is right there. If driving, parking is available but roads can be narrow.
Yes, it's easily accessible via the Onomichi Ropeway. The nearest train station is Onomichi Station, from which you can walk or take a short bus ride to the ropeway base.
From Onomichi Station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Onomichi Ropeway. The ropeway then takes you directly to the shrine.
Parking is available, but the access roads can be narrow. Many visitors opt for the ropeway for easier access.
Yes, if you are at the base of the ropeway, it's a short walk to the shrine. However, the main attraction is the ropeway ride itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit Ushitora Shrine itself. However, you will need a ticket for the Onomichi Ropeway if you choose to use it.
Shrines in Japan are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours for Ushitora Shrine are not widely published, but it's typically accessible during daylight hours.
Yes, it appears you can obtain a goshuin (temple seal) at Ushitora Shrine, which is a popular souvenir for visitors.
No advance booking is required for Ushitora Shrine. Entry is free. If you plan to use the ropeway, you can purchase tickets at the station.
Absolutely. It's located right at the ropeway station, making it perfect for a brief stop to admire the ancient tree and unique views.
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
The most iconic photo opportunity is capturing the Onomichi Ropeway cars passing overhead. The ancient camphor tree is also a stunning subject.
Yes, the 900-year-old camphor tree is a significant natural feature. In autumn, the surrounding foliage also offers beautiful colors.
The large camphor tree is over 900 years old and is designated as a natural monument of Hiroshima Prefecture. It's a central feature of the shrine.
Yes, Ushitora Shrine is known for being a filming location for movies like 'The Girl Who Leapt Through Time' and 'Futari,' and is depicted in the anime 'Kamichu.'
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as quiet and calming, especially when visiting on weekdays. The ancient tree contributes to a serene ambiance.
🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the ancient camphor tree, take photos of the ropeway passing overhead, draw a fortune, and experience the peaceful atmosphere. +1
The most unique feature is the ropeway passing directly above the shrine grounds, creating a distinctive visual. The ancient camphor tree is also a major draw.
Yes, it's a functioning shrine where visitors can offer prayers. The enshrined deities include Izanagi, Amaterasu, and Susanoo.
Some reviews mention finding sleeping cats in the altars, adding a charming element to the visit.
Ushitora Shrine is believed to be the first shrine in Onomichi, built in 806 AD. It holds historical importance for the region.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since it's located right at the ropeway station, it's very accessible and doesn't require a long trek, making it ideal for families with younger children. You can also draw a fortune for a small offering, which can be a fun activity for kids.
📸 Photographers and Instagrammers
+1Its status as a filming location for movies and anime adds an extra layer of interest for those looking to capture iconic or culturally significant scenes. The combination of the ancient tree, the passing ropeway, and the spiritual ambiance makes it a highly photogenic destination.
+1🚶♀️ Day-Trippers and Sightseers
Spend a few minutes admiring the ancient camphor tree, snap photos of the unique ropeway view, and perhaps draw a fortune. It’s a peaceful interlude before or after exploring the temple and enjoying the panoramic views from Mt. Senkoji.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Camphor Tree
This venerable tree is not just a natural wonder but also a spiritual anchor for the shrine. Its presence imbues the grounds with a profound sense of peace, making it a focal point for contemplation and a popular subject for photographers. The sheer scale of the tree is something that truly impresses visitors, offering a connection to nature and the past.
A Unique Intersection: Shrine and Ropeway
This feature makes Ushitora Shrine an incredibly convenient stop for those visiting Senkoji Temple, as the shrine is located right at the ropeway station. It provides a perfect opportunity for a brief, impactful visit, allowing travelers to soak in the atmosphere, admire the ancient tree, and capture some distinctive photos before continuing their ascent or descent.
Cultural Significance and Cinematic Appearances
The shrine has gained recognition for its picturesque setting, serving as a filming location for acclaimed movies such as 'The Girl Who Leapt Through Time' and 'Futari,' both directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi. It has also been featured in the anime series 'Kamichu,' further cementing its cultural footprint.
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