Featuring the largest river basin area within Shikoku, the class A Yoshino River flows from West to East through Tokushima prefecture.

Within the middle basin there is a myriad of beautiful scenery including tranquil, rural landscapes. For example, the picturesque Minoda no Fuchi (the stream pool of Minoda’) below.

By the deep stream pool, which is around 2km long and 100 meters wide, there are plenty of unique, unusually shaped rocks. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the rocks by taking a walk along the riverside or by riding a sightseeing boat.

Around 5 km from Minoda no Fuchi (a 10-minute car ride away) the massive Kamo no Okusu (Kamo’s Giant Camphor tree) stands calmly in solitude, towering over its surroundings.

Compare its size with the houses in the background and the cars driving by!
At over 1000 years old this rare giant of a camphor tree is 26 meters high, 52 meters wide (east to west), and 42 meters south to north.

It stands in a tranquil rural area, part of which has been made into a park.

When you get close to the trunk, you can feel the overwhelming presence of the tree. It has a certain gentleness and dignity…

A sacred straw rope has been tied around the thick trunk, and although supported by poles, the branches stretch around comfortably. The trunk is around 17 meters thick.

Sunlight filtering through its branches makes for a sublime sight.

I just want to keep on looking!
Trying my best to restrain the emotion of not wanting to leave, with feelings of awe and gratitude I leave the place behind…

This is again Yoshino River and the evening sun upon Minoda no Fuchi. The fertile soil formed by the river over a long period of time is rich in nature.

Kamo’s Giant Camphor tree has been designated as one of Japan’s special national natural treasures.
How about coming and taking a close up look at this rare giant camphor tree?

Location: 1482 Kamo, Miyoshi-cho, Miyoshi district, Tokushima prefecture
Guide Homepage: http://www.town.higashimiyoshi.lg.jp/kanko/kankoti/kamo.html (Japanese)

Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Hironobu Matsuoka