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Deep in the forests of Takamorimachi, a small town in Kumamoto Prefecture on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu, hides a humble shrine shrouded by trees and moss-covered greenery. Hailed as a “power spot” by the Japanese, Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine (上色見熊野座神社) is a mystical destination for those looking to feel the earth’s energy and recharge their spirits, or to just take in the all the scenic beauty it has to offer. Even if you can’t make a visit in the near future, you can at least pacify yourself with these stunning images instead.

Twitter has been abuzz about this particular shrine, and for good reason. I mean, even before entering the forest you can tell something magical is afoot.

▼ That sunlight is just beckoning you over.

▼ On the edge of darkness and light

Being there must make you feel like you’ve been spirited away to an enchanted scene straight out of a Ghibli film.

https://twitter.com/hazeno77/status/653972683994984448

But if this all is looking all-too-familiar, you may be remembering the one-shot shojo-manga/ anime titled Hotarubi no Mori e, which is set in this exact forest.

▼ “The shrine entrance at Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine that’s on the poster for Hotarubi no Mori e“

▼ The giant wind tunnel. This particular power spot attracts many visitors.

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Image: Cocopri

▼ The main shrine

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Image: Cocopri

The giant cedar trees, though they take a bit of trekking to get to, are also a sight to behold.

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Image: Takamorimachi homepage

You can feel the serenity of the place just by looking at the photos; if you’re ever in need of a real good recharge, this is without a doubt the place to go.

Source: NAVER Matome
Top image: Twitter/@sakikogigi, Twitter/@hazeno77 (edited by RocketNews24)