Hogan Keyaki Tree
The thick roots of this zelkova (keyaki) tree cling to the massive boulder underneath like a giant’s fingers. Water flowing down the mountainside has slowly washed away the soil around the boulder, leaving the tree perched precariously on the volcanic rock. Zelkova trees are traditionally believed to possess a mystical energy because they are hardy and can grow on relatively little nutrition. Particularly impressive specimens such as this one were often thought to be the dwellings of divine spirits.