The sacred tree along the approach to Musashi Miitake Shrine
This sacred tree is believed to be about 1,200 years old, called Jindai Keyaki which means god-age zelkova tree. It is designated as a natural monument. In addition, the diameter of its trunk is the second largest among zelkova trees inTokyo. In Shinto, natural objects such as trees, waterfalls, mountains, big rocks, gorges and so on are worshipped as holy places where deities reside in, like animism. The Japanese have myriads of gods. By the way, you can see the rope around the trunk of the tree, can't you? It is called Shimenawa which is a sacred twisted straw rope and it is often found in Shrine precincts and holy places. I would like to talk about religion in Japan with you. Why don't you join my tour?
