Hayasuihime-jinja, Shinto shrine in Oita
Hayasuihime-jinja is an ancient shrine located in Oita City dedicated to providing protection for seafarers and travelers. The site features a simple yet carefully maintained wooden structure with a large torii gate at the entrance, small stone lanterns along the path, and three main buildings including a worship hall and a central sanctuary where sacred objects are kept.
The shrine originates from around 667 BC, making it one of the oldest sites in the region with a history spanning over 2,600 years. Over centuries, its primary purpose evolved into providing protection for seafarers, establishing it as an important spiritual center for maritime communities.
The shrine holds deep meaning for the local seafaring community, who come to seek protection and good fortune for their work and travels. Visitors can observe colorful embroidered images hanging in the hall instead of the usual small wooden plaques, showing personal wishes and hopes left by those who pray here.
The shrine is located in Saganoseki, a quiet seaside area in Oita City, and features a free parking lot for visitors. Those arriving by train can take a taxi from the station for approximately 15 minutes to reach the site.
The shrine is famous for its unique tradition called the 'Octopus Cutting Prayer', where visitors come to make wishes related to octopus fishing or to bid farewell to the creature. Remarkably, the priests who work here have abstained from eating octopus since the shrine's rituals began, a distinctive practice that sets it apart across the region.
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