The huge zelkova tree in the Suwa Shrine is the most famous thing in our community.
This huge tree at the center of precincts was planted when the shrine was built, and it has been said that the tree is more than 900 years old.
Its treetop spreads over fifty square meters, and the leaves trembled in a lovely cool breeze in summer.
In spring and fall, the shrine has great festivals, and people carry a portable shrine and build some stalls. At the Gion Festival in summer, children also carry their portable shrines.
In August, Showa 58, the shrine began a Huge Zelkova Festival at which people pray that the tree would keep its youth and health. People used to have a Sumo wrestling convention under the tree, and many strong sumo wrestlers joined.
We had also held the Bon Dance Party until recently. There used to be more places for children to play as well, and some young people would tell children plays and games. At the Gion Festival, the children practiced singing at the precinct. In fall they offered the rice they had grown to the shrine, and the whole school appreciated for rich harvest.
Even now there are always many children playing vigorously at the shrine. Some of them draw a picture of the shrine, and one of the pictures got the prize at the Joetsu painting exhibition in Heisei 3.
The zelkova tree reminds not only people living here but also those who live apart about their memories at the shrine.
The huge tree gives a deep impression on all the people related to Inada.
