The huge work of art created by the nature of Oki

The very shape of this sacred tree at Iwakura Shrine inspires a feeling of dignity. The tree branches out from 4 to 8 meters off the ground, and the 24 drooping breast-like portions of the branch are what gave this tree its name, Chichi-sugi (chichi means "breast"). A cold draught blows forth from the wind holes at the foot of the gate, often creating a mysterious, misty atmosphere.