Hokutogū, Shinto shrine in Japan
Hokutogū is a small Shinto shrine tucked deep in the woods near Kama, situated behind another shrine called Niusakadono. The structures are simple wooden buildings with clean lines, surrounded by trees and greenery that create a quiet, sheltered setting.
The shrine was established over a hundred years ago by local people seeking a place of worship. In its early days, farmers visited to pray for good harvests and adequate rainfall, reflecting the agricultural importance of the area during that time.
Hokutogū carries cultural weight as a place where people openly seek help with personal struggles and life transitions. The practice of writing wishes on small wooden plaques called ema and hanging them on the shrine gates reflects a way visitors symbolically release their hopes and prayers into the care of the shrine's spirits.
The shrine is located within walking distance of central Kama and is free to enter. Visitors should approach with respect and an open heart, taking time to walk slowly through the wooded surroundings to fully experience the peaceful setting.
The shrine is known for a large oak tree with reddish bark that holds sickle knives embedded in its trunk. Since 2017, visitors have been asked to write their wishes on wooden plaques instead, protecting the tree's health while offering a quieter way to pray.
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