The two trees are often referred to as the 'Husband and Wife' cedars due to their proximity and intertwined root systems.
Local folklore claims the trees were planted by the legendary priest En no Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo.
In 1928, these trees were officially designated as a National Natural Monument by the Japanese Ministry of Education.
The trees survived the significant deforestation of the Kaga region during the Edo period due to their status as sacred objects.
The massive girth of the larger cedar makes it one of the top ten largest Japanese cedars in the country by circumference.
The Great Cedars of Kayano, known locally as Kayano no Oosugi, consist of two massive Japanese cedar trees situated in the mountain village of Kayano in Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture. These twin trees are estimated to be over 2,300 years old, making them one of the oldest living botanical specimens in Japan. The larger of the two trees stands approximately 43 meters tall with a trunk circumference exceeding 12 meters. These cedars are designated as a Natural Monument of Japan. The trees are deeply tied to local mountain worship and folk beliefs, historically serving as landmarks for travelers crossing the mountain passes. The site is maintained as a spiritual forest sanctuary with a small shrine located at its base. The surrounding area preserves a traditional rural Japanese landscape that contrasts with the urbanized hot spring districts of Kaga.
From the small stone shrine entrance facing the trees, which allows for a wide-angle perspective that captures both trunks in their entirety.
Bring insect repellent, as the humid, forested environment near the trees is prone to mosquitoes and other forest insects.
Ensure your footwear has good traction, as the path around the base can be uneven and occasionally damp from groundwater.
Combine this visit with the nearby Yamanaka Onsen town to see a contrast between ancient forest and traditional hot spring culture.
Do not attempt to walk to the site from the main Yamanaka Onsen area on foot, as the roads are narrow, winding, and lack dedicated pedestrian sidewalks.
Maintain a quiet tone to respect the site's status as a place of spiritual significance; do not touch or climb the trunks to protect the ancient bark.
