Inside is a massive image of Zao Gongen, protector of Yoshino. The deva kings at the entrance are superb sculptures that complement the exemplary architecture of the temple itself. Dating from the 13th century, they were carved by the famous father and son sculptors, Unkei and Tankei. On the grounds, to the left and down a flight of stone steps, is the site of the palace once occupied by Go-Daigo and his two successors of the southern court. Follow the path farther down into a valley where you will find a small shrine reputed to have a medicinal spring.
Visitors bring eggs to present to a serpent who protects the shrine.
Boiled by the shrine priests, they are offered to subsequent visitors. Just up the road is Katte Jinja, where Shizuka Gozen, mistress of warlord Yoshitsune Minamoto, performed a sacred dance in the 12th century that has become famous in Japanese history. It was here that Masatsura Kusunoki, son of the faithful Masashige, scratched a famous poem, along with the names of his last 143 men, upon the temple door with an arrow as he prepared for battle. He had been instructed by his father to carry on the cause of Emperor Go-Daigo, but he too met defeat and death at the hands of General Ashikaga and his forces. The garden is dominated by a tranquil pond that reflects the pastel pink and snowflake white of hanging cherry blossoms.