Miho Matsubara (Hagoromo Pine)

Overview

Miho Matsubara is a pine grove located on the east coast of Miho Peninsula, jutting into Suruga Bay in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Its beauty has been cherished since ancient times and is even mentioned in the Manyoshu, Japan's oldest existing anthology of poetry. The most captivating aspect of Miho Matsubara is its magnificent scenery, with Mount Fuji providing a breathtaking backdrop. The contrast between the green pine forest, the blue of the ocean's waves, and the clear blue sky is truly awe-inspiring. The 'Hagoromo no Matsu' (Hagoromo Pine), particularly famous for the Heavenly Maiden's Lost Feather Robe legend, is a symbol of Miho Matsubara and attracts many tourists. This black pine, said to be over 300 years old, is where the celestial maiden is believed to have left her feather robe. Beyond the Hagoromo Pine, Miho Matsubara holds numerous historically significant sites. For example, Miho Shrine, located at the western end of Miho Matsubara, has been a place of worship for centuries. Within its grounds is a spot said to be where the Heavenly Maiden retrieved her feather robe. When strolling through the pine grove, consider walking the 'Kami no Michi' (Path of the Gods), a path lined with pine trees connecting Miho Shrine to the Hagoromo Pine. This path is believed to have been used since ancient times as a route to welcome deities. Miho Matsubara is registered as a component of the World Heritage site "Mount Fuji: a sacred place and source of artistic inspiration," making it a location of high historical significance. Whether you explore the pine grove and coastline, or visit nearby historical sites, you can enjoy a relaxing time immersed in rich nature and history.