country. Japan
year of inscription. 2004 (modification: 2016)
criteria. Cultural
This WHS marks ancient pilgrimage routes and its associated
sacred sites dating back some 1,200 years. The three sacred sites of Yoshino and Omine, Kumano
Sanzan, and Koyasan are set in the forests of the Kii Mountains. These sites
are connected by pilgrimage routes, which are further linked to the ancient
capital cities of Nara and Kyoto. Worship customs in these areas date back some
1,200 years and incorporates ancient Japanese animistic practices, Shinto
traditions, as well as Buddhist rituals. Besides the three main sites, this WHS
also includes pilgrimage routes and sub-routes, sacred natural objects like
trees, forests, and mountains, as well as stone mausolea and stupas.
