Kurogi no Ofuji (The Great Wisteria of Kurogi)

Located within the grounds of Susanoo Shrine in Kurogi, Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture, this giant wisteria tree is said to be over 600 years old. It is believed to have been planted in 1395 (Oei 2) during the Muromachi period by Prince Yoshinari, the Later Seisei Shogun. Despite surviving wars and devastating fires, the tree has continued to thrive and is now renowned nationwide as a symbol of longevity. In 1928 (Showa 3), it was designated a National Natural Monument.

The wisteria trellis spreads across an area of about 3,000 square meters. During the blooming season from mid to late April, cascading clusters of purple flowers-some extending over one meter in length-sway gently in the breeze, creating a breathtaking scene reminiscent of a waterfall of blossoms. Coinciding with the peak bloom, the Yame Kurogi Ofuji Festival is held, featuring traditional ceremonies such as the Fuji no Hana Mikimese no Shiki, in which sacred sake is poured at the base of the tree to pray for abundant blossoms, along with stalls selling local specialties. The area comes alive with both local residents and visitors from afar. In the evening, the wisteria is beautifully illuminated, enveloping the surroundings in a magical atmosphere distinct from the daytime view.