泉神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Izumi-jinja (泉神社) is a Shinto shrine in Maibara, Japan, made up of simple wooden buildings set among old trees. A stone gate marks the entrance, and a path lined with stone lanterns leads to the main sanctuary and offering altars.
The shrine was built centuries ago to honor a water deity and served as a place of prayer for local warriors during medieval times. The main building was destroyed in 1802 and rebuilt by the local community in 1983.
The shrine is dedicated to water and a sacred spring that local people have long revered. Visitors can watch others place offerings at the altars and observe simple prayer rituals at the main sanctuary.
The shrine is easiest to reach on foot along a marked forest path lined with stone lanterns. Sturdy footwear is a good idea, as the ground can be wet or slippery depending on the season.
The sacred spring on the grounds, called Mizumuki, is mentioned in local chronicles going back centuries and drew people from several villages who believed its water had healing properties. The spring is still accessible today, flowing just beside the main sanctuary.
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