Yanagihara-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Yanagihara-jinja is a shrine in Numazu with traditional wooden structures on quiet grounds used for religious practices for many years. The site features a simple torii gate at the entrance, a main building called the honden, and a prayer area called the haiden where visitors leave offerings and write wishes.
The shrine was officially established as a religious site in the first half of the 20th century after being venerated by the local community for a long time. The Shinto Directive of 1946 changed some religious practices in Japan and influenced activities at this location.
This place is where local traditions remain active and visitors can observe traditional practices like bowing before entering or ringing a small bell. The simple offerings and personal items left by visitors show how the shrine is woven into the daily life of the community.
The shrine sits on a quiet street in Numazu and is easily reached on foot, with small paths guiding you through the grounds. Visitors find the best experience in early morning or late afternoon when the air is calmer and the light is softer.
The shrine is dedicated to Ōyamatsumi, a mountain deity deeply rooted in the local Izu region, which draws visitors seeking safety in the mountains and good weather. This specialized devotion makes it a meaningful place for people living in or respecting this region.
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