天然記念物馬場大門けやき並木石垣完成記念

Can you imagine a street lined with trees so magnificent, they’ve earned the title of a National Natural Monument? Here, at the 天然記念物馬場大門のケヤキ並木石碑完成記念 (Baba Daimon no Keyaki Namiki), we stand before just such a sight. This remarkable avenue of zelkova trees stretches for 500 meters, a verdant pathway leading to the Okunitama-jinja Shrine. The Baba Daimon no Keyaki Namiki isn’t just any collection of trees. It’s the only National Natural Monument in Japan specifically designated for its zelkova trees. These majestic trees hold centuries of stories within their sturdy trunks. One tale whispers of the samurai Minamoto no Yoshiie and his father, Minamoto no Yoriyoshi. They prayed at Okunitama Shrine before heading north to battle in the Tohoku region. Upon their safe return, they donated zelkova saplings as a gesture of gratitude. Another story connects the avenue to Tokugawa Ieyasu, who donated a horse-riding ground in the 17th century. Zelkova trees were planted around the same time, possibly in honor of the event. The Baba Daimon no Keyaki Namiki once served as a horse market, where samurai would assess and select their steeds. It’s fascinating to think of these powerful warriors riding beneath the same trees we admire today. The oldest tree here is an incredible 400 years old. It stands proudly near the main torii gate of Okunitama-jinja Shrine, a silent witness to centuries of history. Each spring, the Baba Daimon no Keyaki Namiki transforms into a vibrant green corridor, drawing locals and visitors alike to its tranquil beauty. This avenue is more than just a scenic walkway. It’s a living testament to history, a place where nature and human stories intertwine.