Ōarai Isosaki Shrine, Shinto shrine in Oarai, Japan
Ōarai Isosaki is a Shinto shrine in Oarai, Japan, set along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. The complex contains three torii gates, with the smallest one standing on coastal rocks and surrounded by water at high tide.
The site became a religious center in 856 when tradition says two deities appeared on the coast. Worship of the deities Onamuchi-no-Mikoto and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto has continued here since that time.
The complex uses frog statues as guardians instead of the usual lion-dogs, playing on the Japanese word 'kaeru' which means both frog and safe return home. Visitors often touch the figures before trips to ask for protection and a good journey back.
The grounds are open between half past eight in the morning and six in the evening, though sunrise visits are popular. A ten-minute bus ride or twenty-five-minute walk from Oarai Station brings you to the entrance.
The main concrete gate rises over 15 meters (49 feet) tall and spans more than 22 meters (73 feet) wide. These dimensions frame the sun perfectly on New Year morning, drawing thousands of photographers.
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