Located at the eastern foothills of Mt. Daimanji in the Oki Islands of Japan, stands an ancient cedar tree that is approximately 800 years old. This magnificent tree boasts a towering height of 30 meters and has a circumference of 16 meters at the roots, with branches spreading out from 15 different points along the trunk. Interestingly, the tree features 24 impressive stalactite-shaped roots that protrude about 10 meters above the ground, with the longest one measuring up to 2.6 meters in length.
The local inhabitants refer to it as the “Breast Tree” and conduct a sacred ceremony every year on April 23. The area around this tree remains cool even during summers, and there is an eerie atmosphere after rainfall. Chi-chi Sugi, which means “Boob Cedar,” is an ancient tree that has been standing for 800 years on the slopes of Mount Daimanji on Dogo Island, the largest of the Oki Islands.
The Urasugi is a type of tree found along the coast of Japan that has adapted to heavy snowfall by producing stronger lateral branches. These branches have rounded protrusions growing down from them, which are commonly referred to as “boobs”. It is believed that these protrusions help absorb moisture from the air.
The cool air that rises up from the gaps between the large rocks on the slope mixes with the warm air coming from the sea, creating a misty atmosphere in the area.
One of the many holy trees on the island is definitely worth searching for.
