Aoi Aso Shrine
Declared a national treasure of Japan in 2008, this shrine was constructed utilising the Momoyama style of architecture. The intricate engravings and steep thatched roofs reminded me of the roof structures of the farmhouses of Shirakawago.
A red, pedestrian bridge over a densely populated lotus flower pond creates a path to the shrine from the town. The shrine is regarded as the protector of the land of the Kuma district of Kumamoto. With approximately 90% of Kumamoto’s shrines located in this district, the Aoi Aso Shrine is one of the main ones and is a popular place of worship for the locals.
The grounds are spacious and house five buildings: the main gate, front shrine, offering hall, tower and main shrine. I noticed all the little details of this beautifully constructed shrine and took a relaxing stroll through the grounds. The breeze was dancing with the Burgundy leaves on the ground in the late afternoon sun. It is a lovely spot to spend a few quiet moments sitting under the big trees.
If you are a morning person, pay a visit to the shrine in the early hours to see the priests doing their prayers.
