Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo (Wakayama Prefecture) | Complete Guide to the 400-Year-Old Natural Monument and Autumn Foliage Highlights
Located in Fukusada, Nakahechie Town, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is a giant ginkgo tree with an estimated age of 400 years. This large ginkgo tree stands on the grounds of Hosen-ji Temple and is protected as a natural monument designated by Tanabe City. During autumn’s foliage season, it shines in golden yellow, captivating many tourists. Positioned in the Nakahechi area, the center of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, it has long been cherished as a landmark for pilgrims walking the ancient trail.
Basic Information and History of Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo
A Colossal Tree of Impressive Scale
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo surprises visitors with its overwhelming magnitude. Its height reaches approximately 22 meters, with a trunk circumference of about 5.3 meters, and branch spread extending up to 24 meters at maximum. This imposing figure can be seen from a distance even when driving along National Route 311 toward Hongu, making it a representative landmark of the Nakahechi area.
The tree has a distinctive form where the trunk splits into several branches at a height of about 4 meters from its base. The locals affectionately call it “Senbon Ginkgo” (Thousand Ginkgo). This unique branching pattern was formed over many years and speaks to the strong vitality of the great ginkgo.
Historical Background of Hosen-ji Temple and the Great Ginkgo
Hosen-ji Temple, where Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo stands, was a central temple of the Fukusada settlement, which flourished as a lodging town on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route. With an estimated age of 400 years, it is believed to have been planted during the early to middle Edo period, standing witness to pilgrims on their journeys to Kumano.
The Kumano Kodo is a path that from the Heian period onward saw countless pilgrims—from imperial family and nobility to commoners—making spiritual journeys. Fukusada was an important waypoint, and the great ginkgo in Hosen-ji’s grounds served as both a place of rest for weary travelers and a waymarker.
Value as a Municipal Natural Monument
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is officially protected as a natural monument designated by Tanabe City. The designation reflects not only the tree’s size but also its deep connection to regional history and culture, its ecological value, and the long-standing symbiotic relationship with local residents, all evaluated comprehensively.
This great ginkgo is known as one of the most remarkable giant trees in Wakayama Prefecture, featured on the official Wakayama Prefecture tourism website and in many tourism media outlets. Protected as a regional treasure while simultaneously being utilized as a tourism resource.
Autumn Foliage Season Highlights and Attractions
Spectacular Scenery Shining in Golden Yellow
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo displays its most beautiful form during autumn’s foliage season. Typically from late October through mid-November, the entire giant tree transforms into vivid golden yellow. Against the backdrop of surrounding mountains turning red and brown, the sight of the great ginkgo alone radiating brilliant yellow is truly breathtaking.
On clear days especially, the golden leaves basking in sunlight against the blue sky create a divine beauty. From National Route 311, the tree’s figure is clearly visible, towering among the forest in golden light—an image that captures people’s eyes from afar.
Golden Carpet of Fallen Leaves Across the Temple Grounds
Once the peak of autumn color passes, the great ginkgo’s leaves gradually begin to fall. The golden carpet of fallen leaves spreading across Hosen-ji Temple’s grounds is another highlight of Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo. The golden leaves accumulated at the tree’s base provide quiet wonder to visitors and allow them to fully experience autumn’s atmosphere.
Walking across the grounds where leaves have accumulated, the pleasant rustling sound of “kasa kasa” echoes underfoot, allowing visitors to feel autumn not just visually but auditorily as well. This fallen leaf carpet can be enjoyed for approximately one to two weeks after the foliage peak and is popular as a photography spot.
Detailed Information on Peak Viewing Season
The viewing season for Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo’s autumn foliage varies somewhat depending on that year’s climate conditions, but generally follows this progression:
Late October: The period when leaves gradually begin to change color. Green leaves still remain, but the transformation to yellow begins.
Early to mid-November: The period of most beautiful golden yellow at its peak. This period offers the finest viewing.
Late November: The period when leaf drop progresses and a golden carpet spreads across the grounds. Leaves often still remain on the upper portions of the tree, allowing enjoyment of a different kind of beauty.
Due to recent climate change, the peak viewing period has shown a tendency to occur somewhat later than before, with cases increasing where mid- to late November marks the height of the season. When planning a visit, it is recommended to check the latest foliage information from the Nakahechie Town Tourism Association or Wakayama Prefecture’s official tourism website.
Access and Surrounding Information
Access by Car
Car access is the most convenient way to reach Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo. The main routes are as follows:
From the Osaka area: Use the Hanwa Expressway and exit at Kamitonda IC. Then proceed via National Route 42 to National Route 311 heading toward Hongu. The distance from Kamitonda IC to Fukusada takes approximately 40-50 minutes.
From the Wakayama City area: Head south on National Route 42, passing through Tanabe city before entering National Route 311. From Wakayama City to Fukusada takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
From the Shingu/Hongu area: Use National Routes 168 or 311 heading toward Fukusada. From Hongu Taisha, it takes approximately 30 minutes heading north on National Route 311.
Directional signage for Hosen-ji Temple is posted along National Route 311, making it relatively easy to find even for first-time visitors. However, during peak foliage season, parking space is limited, so visiting during earlier hours is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
When using public transportation, JR Kisei Main Line’s Kii-Tanabe Station is the nearest railway station. From the station, you will need to use local buses, but service is limited, making it essential to confirm the timetable in advance.
From Kii-Tanabe Station, board the Ryujin Bus heading toward Hongu and get off at the “Fukusada” bus stop. From the stop to Hosen-ji Temple is approximately a 5-minute walk. However, as bus service runs only several times daily, detailed planning including return journey timing is necessary.
When visiting as part of a Kumano Kodo pilgrimage walk, combining the visit with other attractions in the Nakahechi area will make for a more fulfilling journey.
Parking and Facilities Information
Hosen-ji Temple grounds have parking space for visitors, but the capacity is not large enough to accommodate many vehicles or tour buses. During peak foliage season, particularly on weekends and holidays, congestion is expected. Visiting on weekdays or during early morning or evening hours is recommended.
The grounds have basic facilities such restrooms, but there are few restaurants or souvenir shops in the surrounding area. It is advisable to prepare what you might need beforehand. Vending machines are also limited, so bringing drinking water is recommended.
Relationship to Kumano Kodo and Surrounding Tourism
Attractions of the Nakahechi Area
The town of Nakahechi, where Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is located, is a particularly important area along the Kumano Kodo. Nakahechi is known as the pilgrimage route most utilized by pilgrims to the Kumano Sanzan (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha). In 2004, “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Fukusada settlement historically flourished as a lodging town on Nakahechi, serving as a rest stop for pilgrims. Today, the area still retains much of its historical character, with stone-paved paths and oji shrines (shrines found along the Kumano pilgrimage route) scattered along the ancient trail.
Kumano Kodo Walking and the Great Ginkgo
In recent years, hiking the Kumano Kodo has become popular among both domestic and international tourists. Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo has become an important stop along the way for many people walking Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, earning their affection.
Particularly during the foliage season, itineraries combining ancient path walks with ginkgo viewing are popular. After walking the stone-paved ancient trail and feeling the history, arriving at the Fukusada settlement and finding the golden great ginkgo before you is truly the highlight of the journey.
The Nakahechi area offers various walking routes, from short distances suitable for beginners to long distances for experienced hikers. Multiple routes use Fukusada as a starting or ending point, allowing visitors to choose according to their physical ability and available time.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Visiting nearby attractions while seeing Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo will create a more enriching journey.
Kumano Hongu Taisha: Located approximately 30 minutes south of Fukusada via National Route 311, one of the Kumano Sanzan. Revered as the head shrine of all Kumano shrines nationwide, it exudes a solemn atmosphere.
Hasshin-mon Oji: One of the important oji shrines on Nakahechi, the approximately 7 km route from here to Kumano Hongu Taisha is particularly popular for hiking on the Kumano Kodo.
Dainichi-goe: An ancient trail route from Fukusada toward Takijiri Oji. Relatively easy to walk and popular for fully experiencing the atmosphere of the ancient trail.
Ushimago Doji Statue: A representative stone statue of Nakahechi, said to depict Emperor Kazan’s pilgrimage to Kumano. Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Fukusada.
Chikaro Oji: One of the major oji shrines on Nakahechi. Accommodations and dining establishments are available in the surrounding area, making it a convenient base for Kumano Kodo hiking.
Photography Spots and Best Shots
Recommended Photography Points
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo has become a popular photography destination thanks to its impressive scale and beautiful golden foliage. Here are some tips for taking more impressive photographs.
Front view from within the temple grounds: Capturing the great ginkgo straight-on from within Hosen-ji’s grounds is a basic yet powerful composition, showing the golden tree standing majestically against the blue sky.
Distant view from National Route 311: Photographing from a distance away from the main road creates beautiful photos showing the contrast between surrounding mountains and the ginkgo. During foliage season, the golden ginkgo stands out brilliantly against the greens and browns of the surrounding hills.
Upward shot from the tree’s base: Photographing the trunk from the base looking upward emphasizes the massive size of the tree and the spread of its branches, creating an imposing image.
With fallen leaves carpet: When photographing after peak foliage, using the golden leaves spread across the grounds as foreground creates photos that convey autumn atmosphere.
Ideal Photography Times
The best time to photograph Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo varies depending on light conditions.
Morning (approximately 9:00-11:00): Soft morning light illuminates the great ginkgo, with golden leaves glowing gently. The air is often clear, allowing crisp photographs.
Around noon: With the sun high overhead, even light bathes the entire ginkgo. The contrast with blue sky is most vivid during this time.
Late afternoon (approximately 15:00-16:00): Western sunlight illuminates the ginkgo, making its golden color appear deeper. Recommended for those wanting dramatic atmospheric photographs.
Even on cloudy days, soft light surrounding the tree allows for calm-atmosphere photographs. On days after rain, wet leaves appear darker in color, offering yet another perspective.
Photography Notes
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is located within Hosen-ji, a religious facility, requiring certain considerations when photographing.
Move quietly about the grounds and be mindful not to disturb other worshippers or tourists. If using a tripod, choose a location that doesn’t obstruct passage, and consider avoiding its use during busy times.
Drone aerial photography is generally prohibited on temple grounds. Additionally, the surrounding area is mountainous and may fall under Civil Aeronautics Act regulations, requiring confirmation with relevant authorities before use.
Avoid touching the ginkgo’s base or trunk or pulling on branches, as these actions could damage the tree. Always remember that this is a valuable protected natural monument.
Precautions When Visiting Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo
Clothing and Items to Bring
As Fukusada is located in mountainous terrain, temperatures are lower than in flatland areas. Particularly during autumn foliage season, mornings and evenings bring harsh cold, making cold-weather precautions essential. Prepare layered clothing, and bring thin down jackets or fleece.
If planning to walk Kumano Kodo, comfortable walking shoes are necessary. The ancient trail features stone paths, soil roads, and stairs, making sneakers or trekking shoes appropriate. During rain, paths become slippery, so waterproof shoes are advisable.
Other convenient items include:
- Drinking water (few vending machines in the area)
- Light snacks or energy food
- Rain gear (mountain weather changes quickly)
- Sunscreen and hat (for strong sunlight)
- Camera with extra battery
- Maps or phone charger
Etiquette and Environmental Protection
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is a community treasure protected as a natural monument. Each visitor’s adherence to proper etiquette allows this beautiful landscape to be preserved for the future.
Always take your trash with you. As trash bins may not be available on the grounds, bringing a garbage bag is recommended. Limit collecting fallen leaves, considering ecosystem impacts.
Never touch the ginkgo’s trunk or base, break branches, or damage bark. Walking heavily around the base can negatively affect the tree’s growth, so remain in designated areas.
Safety Precautions
As the location is mountainous, sudden weather changes require attention. Particularly from autumn into winter, sudden temperature drops or rainfall are possible. Check weather forecasts beforehand and consider postponing visits if bad weather is expected.
National Route 311 is a mountain road with many curves and poor visibility. Drive carefully, and especially on foliage season weekends when traffic increases, maintain leisurely driving.
When visiting alone or planning ancient trail walks, inform family or friends of your destination and expected return time. Cellular signal may be unavailable in some areas, so ensure emergency communication means are available.
Protection Activities and Community Efforts for Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo
Protection as a Natural Monument
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is protected as a natural monument designated by Tanabe City, with ongoing collaborative efforts between administration and residents. Regular health examinations by tree specialists, appropriate pruning work, disease and pest prevention and control are continuously implemented.
Ancient trees exceeding 400 years of age, like humans, face various health issues with age. Trunk hollowing, branch dieback, and root weakening are subject to early detection and appropriate treatment, maintaining the ginkgo’s health.
Discontinuation of Nighttime Illumination and Environmental Consideration
In the past, nighttime illumination was performed during foliage season, but has been discontinued in recent years considering impacts on the tree. This decision, prioritizing the long-term health of the ginkgo, reflects community consensus.
While nighttime lighting creates fantastical scenery, it can disrupt the tree’s biological rhythms and cause stress. For ancient trees especially, such stress can lead to declining vigor, making environmental consideration the prioritized decision.
Community Role
For local residents, Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is not merely a tourism resource but an existence with whom they have lived for many years. Temple parishioners and community members protect the ginkgo through daily cleaning and grounds management activities.
While many tourists visit during foliage season, local people warmly welcome them and sometimes explain the ginkgo’s history and highlights. Such thoughtfulness and effort by community members allow Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo to maintain its beautiful form to this day.
Other Ginkgo Locations in Wakayama Prefecture
Other beautiful ginkgo viewing spots exist within Wakayama Prefecture beyond Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo. Consider these when planning a prefectural autumn foliage tour.
Koya-san Ginkgo Boulevard: World Heritage Koya-san features ginkgo trees scattered about that turn golden in autumn. The contrast between temple architecture and ginkgo foliage creates beautiful scenery.
Wakayama Castle Surroundings: The area around Wakayama Castle in the city center also features ginkgos that beautifully change color in autumn. The combination of castle architecture and foliage conveys historical atmosphere.
Nachi Falls Area: The area around Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls features ginkgos that add autumn color. The sight of Japan’s highest waterfall and foliage together is magnificent.
Visiting these locations alongside Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo allows for a deeper experience of Wakayama Prefecture’s autumn charm.
Conclusion: Fully Enjoying Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo
Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo possesses three attractions: its 400-year history, overwhelming scale of 22 meters height and 5.3-meter trunk circumference, and autumn’s golden foliage—making it a representative natural sight of Wakayama Prefecture.
This giant tree standing on Hosen-ji’s grounds is not merely a tourist spot but a community treasure that has walked alongside Kumano Kodo history. Long cherished as a landmark for those traveling National Route 311, a rest stop for ancient trail pilgrims, and a source of local pride, it continues to be loved.
During foliage season from late October through mid-November, the sight of golden light shining among mountain trees is most beautiful, captivating many tourists. The golden fallen leaf carpet spreading across the grounds is also a sight not to miss.
When visiting, prepare appropriate clothing and items, and respect the value of this natural monument through proper etiquette. Combining the visit with nearby attractions like Kumano Kodo and Kumano Hongu Taisha will create an even more fulfilling journey.
The latest information about Fukusada’s Great Ginkgo is available through Wakayama Prefecture’s official tourism website and the Nakahechie Town Tourism Association. While the ginkgo displays different beauty throughout the seasons, autumn foliage season truly showcases its finest qualities. Please visit in person to experience the golden splendor woven by this 400-year-old giant tree.
