Takuzudama Shrine, Shinto shrine in Japan
Takuzudama Shrine is a small Shinto shrine on Tsushima Island that stands out for its unconventional design. Instead of a large prayer hall, stones are stacked to mark the sacred area with the mountain itself serving as a deity, while traditional wooden structures with curved roofs define the surroundings.
The shrine dates back to the Heian period and was originally known as Tsutsuotera, blending Shinto and Buddhist practices. During the Meiji era, it was renamed Takuzudama Shrine and became a pure Shinto site, reflecting Japan's separation of the two religions at that time.
The shrine's name refers to Takuzudama, a spiritual force that visitors still honor today. Its simple design and lack of a large prayer hall show how directly the connection between people and nature is experienced here.
A small trail leads up to the shrine, which is easily reached on foot without special physical demands. Visitors should walk at a measured pace and use the quiet surroundings to connect with the nature and traditions of the place.
The shrine has no traditional prayer hall but instead considers the mountain itself a living deity and center of worship. This ancient practice of venerating nature, where stacked stones mark the sacred boundary, continues to be practiced here today.
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