A Sacred Cedar Surrounded by Legends
Yaosugi Cedar is closely associated with a fascinating local legend. According to tradition, Yaobikuni, a Buddhist nun said to have gained eternal youth and immortality, traveled here from the ancient province of Wakasa. She is said to have planted a cedar sapling and declared that she would return after 800 years.
Because of this legend, the tree was once known as Yaobikuni Cedar, a name that was eventually shortened to Yaosugi. Whether or not the story is historically true, the legend adds a mysterious atmosphere to this already extraordinary ancient tree.
The Legend of the Giant Serpent
Another intriguing legend tells of a giant serpent that once lived at the base of the cedar. According to the story, the serpent fell asleep and became trapped inside the tree. Local folklore even says that if you place your ear against the trunk, you may be able to hear the serpent’s breathing.
The inside of the massive trunk is actually hollow, giving the tree an unusual appearance and adding to the atmosphere surrounding the old legends. Here, the boundary between the natural world and traditional folklore seems particularly close, making Yaosugi Cedar an intriguing destination for visitors interested in Japanese mythology and local traditions.
A Sacred Tree at a Historic Shrine
Tamawakasu-mikoto Shrine, where Yaosugi Cedar stands, is a historic shrine dedicated to Tamawakasu-mikoto, a deity associated with the development and settlement of the Oki Islands. The shrine has long been revered as the chief shrine of ancient Oki Province.
After walking up the approach to the shrine and passing through its sacred gate, visitors will find Yaosugi Cedar standing quietly on the right. Its enormous trunk appears almost to welcome worshippers as they enter the shrine grounds, while its ancient presence adds to the solemn and spiritual atmosphere of the site.
A Symbol of Nature, History, and Faith
Yaosugi Cedar is far more than an impressive old tree. It is a symbol where nature, history, traditional beliefs, and local legends come together. For centuries, the tree has stood within the sacred grounds of the shrine, silently witnessing the lives and prayers of generations of island residents.
Its immense trunk, unusual hollow interior, and extraordinary age offer visitors a tangible sense of the passage of time. Standing beside the cedar can be a peaceful and memorable experience, particularly for travelers who enjoy ancient trees, sacred places, Japanese mythology, and the natural heritage of Japan.
Easy Access from Saigo Port
Yaosugi Cedar is conveniently located approximately 5 minutes by car from Saigo Port and can also be reached by bus. Its convenient location makes it an easy addition to a sightseeing itinerary around Dogo Island.
Combining a visit to Yaosugi Cedar with a visit to Tamawakasu-mikoto Shrine allows travelers to experience not only one of the Oki Islands’ most impressive ancient trees, but also the spiritual traditions and long history of Dogo Island.