Aoi Aso Shrine: 400 Years of Brilliance from Japan's First Thatched-Roof National Treasure

Standing in the heart of Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Aoi Aso Shrine is affectionately known as "Aoi-san" by locals. This shrine became Kumamoto's first designated national treasure building in 2008 and holds the distinction of being Japan's first thatched-roof shrine and temple architecture to receive national treasure status—truly a jewel in Japanese architectural history.

1200 Years of History and the Reason for National Treasure Designation

Aoi Aso Shrine's founding dates back to 806 AD (Daido 1), giving it over 1200 years of history. The shrine enshrines three deities from Aso Shrine: Takeiwa-tatsu-no-mikoto, Aso-tsuhime-no-mikoto, and Kuni-no-miyatsuko-hayamikatama-no-mikoto.

The current shrine buildings were constructed over four years from 1610 to 1613 (Keicho 15-18) by the first lord of Hitoyoshi Domain, Sagara Nagatsune, and his chief retainer Sagara Seibei, giving them over 400 years of history.

The reason for its national treasure designation lies in its exceptional architectural value. While inheriting the distinctive design traditions of medieval Kuma region, it skillfully incorporates the gorgeous decorative elements of the Momoyama period. Its high level of completion made it the model for shrine and temple construction in early modern Kuma region.

The Overwhelming Presence of Thatched-Roof Architecture

The most distinctive feature of Aoi Aso Shrine is its steeply pitched thatched roofs. All five structures—the main hall, corridor, offering hall, worship hall, and gate tower—were built simultaneously, which is rare nationwide.

Architectural highlights include:

• Gorgeous Momoyama-style decorations: Colorful ornamental designs and dragon carvings characteristic of southern Kyushu are incorporated throughout

• Dignified black lacquer finish: The shrine buildings are primarily finished in black lacquer, with the main hall and offering hall featuring excellent carvings and metal ornaments

• Zen Buddhist-style gate tower: Built in authentic Zen Buddhist architectural style, creating a striking contrast with other buildings

• Unique L-shaped layout: The L-shaped configuration with a sacred kitchen beside the worship hall became the standard for shrine and temple architecture in the Kuma region

Year-Round Festivals and Culture

Aoi Aso Shrine hosts various festivals throughout the year. Most famous is the "Okunchi Festival" held annually from October 3rd to 11th, which has continued since the Heian period as the largest festival in the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region. It features Kuma Kagura (sacred dance), designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, and a procession with over 2000 participants marching through Hitoyoshi City.

During the festival, there's a tradition that being bitten on the head by the lion mask brings good health and protection from illness, attracting many visitors. It continues to be cherished as an important cultural event that deepens bonds with the local community.

New in 2023! Kengo Kuma-Designed National Treasure Memorial Hall

In November 2023, the "Aoi no Mori National Treasure Memorial Hall" designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma opened. Built alongside the thatched-roof national treasure shrine architecture, it combines a shrine office, museum, and community gathering space with tatami halls.

The pillars supporting the large roof use 400-year-old fallen Japanese cedar from Sano Shrine in Miyazaki Prefecture—trees approximately the same age as the national treasure shrine buildings. This architecture, harmoniously blending tradition and modernity, is attracting attention as a new tourist destination.

Rich Surroundings with Hitoyoshi Hot Springs and Kuma River

The area around Aoi Aso Shrine is blessed with abundant tourist resources.

Hitoyoshi Hot Springs

Hitoyoshi Hot Springs originated in 1910 and now has over 50 spring sources. The water quality is mildly alkaline bicarbonate springs with a gentle, smooth touch. Known as "beauty hot springs," they're perfect for relaxing after visiting the shrine.

Kuma River

One of Japan's three major rapids, Kuma River offers activities like river rafting and white-water rafting. The beautiful scenery created by the clear stream captivates visitors throughout the four seasons.

Kuma Shochu

The Hitoyoshi-Kuma region has 27 distilleries producing over 200 brands of Kuma Shochu. In 1995, it received geographical indication designation from the National Tax Agency, placing it alongside world-famous spirits like Cognac and Bordeaux wine.

Access Information and Sightseeing Tips

Access to Aoi Aso Shrine is very convenient, just a 5-minute walk from JR Hitoyoshi Station. It's about 10 minutes by car from the Hitoyoshi IC on the Kyushu Expressway.

The shrine is open year-round with free admission. Sacred seals (goshuin) are available, and an online授与所 has been established, allowing visitors from afar to receive them.

The surrounding area features tourist spots including Hitoyoshi Castle ruins, Kuma River boat rides, and hot spring facilities, perfect for a full day of leisurely exploration. The cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn foliage are particularly beautiful.

Recovery from Disaster and Preservation for the Future

During the July 2020 heavy rain disaster, flooding from the Kuma River reached 4.3 meters high, causing floor flooding in the national treasure worship hall and damage to the railings of the nationally registered cultural property Misogi Bridge. However, through the efforts of local people, it has been magnificently restored and continues to welcome visitors in its unchanged form.

Aoi Aso Shrine is not merely a tourist destination but a living cultural property where regional history, culture, and people's faith breathe. The sight of architecture over 400 years old still in active use and continuously loved by local people tells the story of the wonderful nature of Japanese traditional culture.