Kagami Shrine, Shinto shrine in Japan
Kagami Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Karatsu located at the base of Mt. Kagami and surrounded by tall trees. The grounds contain two main buildings with curved roofs and wooden decorations, one dedicated to Empress Jingu and the other honoring Fujiwara Hirotsugu, with a small museum nearby holding ancient swords over 700 years old.
The shrine has stood for many centuries and is linked to Empress Jingu, remembered for her journey to Korea long ago. After World War II, many weapons were hidden in the shrine in secret places, later becoming part of a collection of ancient swords now displayed in the museum building.
The shrine's name Kagami means 'mirror' in Japanese, referring to its sacred pond where water reflects the surrounding trees and sky. Locals and visitors see this mirror-like quality as a symbol for self-reflection and inner understanding within their spiritual practice.
The shrine opens early in the morning and stays open until late afternoon. You can reach it by walking on well-marked forest paths, with the walk itself being part of the visit and offering time to enjoy the surrounding nature.
One tree on the shrine grounds is shaped like a pregnant woman, and visitors believe that touching it or sitting nearby will help fulfill wishes for a safe pregnancy or healthy baby. This tree tradition blends nature reverence with hope in a subtle and touching way.
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