The Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo is a magnificent ancient tree in Shimojo, Oguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture. Designated a Natural Monument of Japan, it is estimated to be more than 1,000 years old and is widely regarded as the largest ginkgo tree in Kumamoto Prefecture.
The tree is popularly known as the Great Ginkgo of Shimojo, or Shimojo Oicho. Its official designation by the Agency for Cultural Affairs is “Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo.” With its enormous trunk, extensive branches, and brilliant golden foliage in autumn, it is one of the area’s most remarkable natural landmarks.
The official name “Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo” reflects the historical spelling of the local place name. When the tree was designated as a Natural Monument, the district was written as “Shimo-no-jo.” Although the place name is now generally written “Shimojo,” the tree retains its original designation.
The Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo was designated a Natural Monument of Japan on December 28, 1934, in the ninth year of the Showa era. It is one of only 20 ginkgo trees in Japan designated as national Natural Monuments, according to the source article.
It is also one of only two ginkgo trees in Kumamoto Prefecture to have received this national designation. Its official status recognizes the tree’s exceptional size, age, and natural and cultural importance.
The tree stands in the Shimojo district of Oguni Town, between the Miyahara district, where the town office is located, and Tsuetate Onsen, near the border with Hita City in Oita Prefecture.
It grows on slightly elevated ground along a local road just east of National Route 212. Shimonjo Waterfall is located nearby, and the area lies in the upper reaches of the Chikugo River system. The combination of the ancient tree, waterfall, and surrounding natural landscape makes this area a rewarding destination for visitors exploring northern Kumamoto Prefecture.
The Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo reaches approximately 25 meters in height, and the circumference around its base is about 21 meters. Reported measurements of the trunk circumference vary between approximately 9.6 and 12 meters, depending on the source.
Its extensive branches are another remarkable feature. They spread approximately 19 meters to the east and 25 meters to the west. Viewed from a distance, the broad crown can resemble a small forest, demonstrating the extraordinary scale of this ancient tree.
The tree is a female ginkgo. Numerous shoots rise vertically from the base, surrounding the main trunk and forming a massive, clustered structure. The largest of these shoots reaches approximately 2 meters in height and 1.9 meters in circumference.
Although the tree has relatively few of the long, hanging growths commonly associated with ginkgo trees, its trunk bears many distinctive rounded swellings known in Japanese as chichikobu. Because of their unusual appearance, local people have affectionately called the tree “Chikobusan” or “Chichikobusan.”
A traditional belief connects the tree’s distinctive trunk growths with motherhood and breastfeeding. According to local legend, women who had difficulty producing breast milk prayed to the ginkgo and drank a decoction made from its bark, believing that it would help increase their milk supply.
Marks where pieces of bark have been removed can still be seen on parts of the trunk. The tree continues to attract people who pray for children, good relationships, and family blessings. These traditions illustrate the longstanding connection between the giant tree and the spiritual life of the local community.
The ginkgo is traditionally regarded as the gravestone of Kazusa no Suke Tsunekata, a former lord of Shimojo Castle. A nearby five-ring stone pagoda is said to mark the grave of his mother, Myoei.
These traditions give the tree a historical significance beyond its botanical importance. Its presence links the landscape with stories of local rulers, family memorials, and the history of the Shimojo district.
The ginkgo usually turns a brilliant golden yellow from late October to early November. During this period, its immense canopy becomes a striking seasonal attraction, drawing visitors who come to admire the luminous foliage.
Oguni Town also organizes nighttime illumination during the autumn season. After dark, the illuminated tree creates a mysterious and atmospheric scene, offering a different experience from viewing the golden leaves in daylight.
The nighttime illumination is generally held from mid-October to mid-November, while the most vivid autumn foliage usually appears from late October to early November. The exact timing can vary with weather and seasonal conditions.
Facilities such as toilets are available in the area, making it convenient for visitors to spend time viewing the tree. As the illumination schedule may change from year to year, visitors should check current information from Oguni Town before traveling.
The Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo is carefully maintained by local residents, with the local women’s association playing a central role in its care. This community involvement helps preserve the ancient tree and maintain the surrounding area for future generations.
Its national designation as a Natural Monument recognizes the tree’s exceptional natural value, while its legends and local traditions give it continuing cultural significance. The conservation of the tree is therefore closely connected with both environmental protection and the preservation of local heritage.
The tree is located at 716 Sakashita, Shimojo, Oguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan.
From the Kumamoto area, travel through Ozu Town and follow Kumamoto Prefectural Route 339. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes, according to the source article.
From Kokonoe Interchange on the Oita Expressway, take National Route 387 toward Oguni Town. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes.
Roadside Station Oguni, also known as Yu Station, is a convenient place to stop when exploring the area. Visitors can combine the ginkgo tree with a visit to nearby Shimonjo Waterfall and other attractions around Oguni Town.
The Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo is remarkable for its age, size, and cultural associations. Estimated to be more than 1,000 years old, it stands approximately 25 meters tall, with a base circumference of around 21 meters and branches extending widely in both directions.
Its national designation as a Natural Monument, its legends involving Shimojo Castle, and the local traditions associated with motherhood and family blessings all contribute to its special place in the community.
Autumn is an especially rewarding time to visit, when the leaves turn golden and nighttime illumination creates an atmospheric view of the ancient tree. Together with nearby Shimonjo Waterfall, the Ginkgo Tree of Shimojo offers a memorable encounter with the natural beauty, history, and traditions of Oguni Town.