On June 7, 2026, Japan’s first-ever initiative to simultaneously dedicate paintings to the Kumano Sanzan, a  World Heritage Site, has come to fruition. And the dedication ceremonies were held at the three sacred sites same day. A total of 51 people paid their respects at the main hall. Using a fleet of 15 vehicles, including a minibus, we visited Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha in that order starting at 9:30 a.m., and the tour concluded at 5:00 p.m.

We also held a social gathering for the group of pilgrims who had stayed at Totsugawa Onsen the previous day and made their preparations, and Shiozawa addressed them.

It rained on June 7. Thanks to the kindness of Hongu Grand Shrine, tents had been set up at Ōyunohara.

The trees and plants in the forest of Ōyunohara seem to be rejoicing in the refreshing, cleansing rain.

Together with all the worshippers, we listened quietly to the priest’s ritual chant. As the sound of the rain mingled with the chant, I felt as though the sincere prayers of everyone present had reached the spirits of Ōyunohara.

As Shiozawa’s tamagushi offering came to an end,

the sound of Mr. Miyashita’s purifying conch shell echoed through the mountains of Kumano. Intertwining with Shiozawa’s drums, its sacred tones pierced the mountains, purifying the spirit. It was the same sacred sound that people in ancient times had heard.

Once the prayer ceremony at Ōyunohara was over, we walked slowly toward the main hall of Hongu Taisha and climbed the stairs.

Saarhat and Shiozawa who offer their tamagushi at the Worship hall, Chief Priest Kuki personally to support purify their hands and mouth.

With the addition of approximately 25 members from organizations affiliated with Motomiya Grand Shrine, the worship hall was overflowing with worshippers. Following a series of rituals—including a purification rite, the recitation of a norito prayer, a kagura dance, and the offering of tamagushi—a unveiling ceremony was held for the dedication painting titled “The White Eight-Footed Crow and the Birth of Susanoo,” created by Chief Priest Kuki of Motomiya Grand Shrine and Shiozawa.

In addition to Ms. Saarhat and Shiozawa, many other distinguished guests participated in the ritual offering of Tamagushi, and then, Chief Priest Kuki presented Mr. Shiozawa with a certificate of appreciation.

Regarding the “White Yatagarasu,” Chief Priest Kuki expressed his gratitude, saying, “White is a symbol of peace. Just like this White Yatagarasu, I hope our shrine will continue to grow and prosper.”

Chief Priest Kuki also introduced Mr. Tsutada, Director of the Nishijin International Art Museum, regarding the Nishijin-ori tapestry “Kumano Sansho Gongen-zu” that was donated at the same time, and expressed his gratitude.

After that, as the rain had let up, Chief Priest Kuki of the Hongu Shrine kindly guided us to the Main Sactuary hall within the shrine grounds. This was an exceptionally rare special visit, and only Shiozawa and Saarahat were allowed inside.

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We were honored to hold a meaningful dedication ceremony at Ōyunohara, the Worship Hall, and the Sanctuary Hall, accompanied by prayers to the deities.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Chief Priest Kuki for his thoughtful and attentive care.