Moriminashi Hachiman Shrine

Moriminashi Hachiman Shrine in Gero is believed to date from the fourth century and preserves twelve carved wooden statuettes from the twelfth century, designated an Important Cultural Property and displayed only at festivals and New Year's Eve. The surviving cedar on the grounds has a 6.34-meter circumference and is several hundred years old; its companion tree, once considered one of the 'six sights of Gero,' toppled in 1990 after being damaged by fire. A 600-kilogram mikoshi originally brought from Kyoto during the Edo period is stored near the main hall. The annual Tanokami Festival in February draws dancers and devotees to give thanks for the harvest.