Ae-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Ae-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Harima with simple wooden structures and small stone lanterns marking the quiet grounds. The sanctuary is dedicated to ocean deities and receives visitors who come to pray for safety during sea journeys.
The shrine developed as a place of protection for fishermen and sailors in the region. It preserves legends about supernatural events, including the story of a pine tree said to have grown overnight and a serpent spirit believed to guard the site.
Ae-jinja serves local fishermen and sailors who come to pray for protection during sea journeys. Visitors leave offerings and tie small paper charms to trees, keeping alive a tradition of honoring the ocean deities through daily acts of respect.
The shrine is easy to reach with a small parking area nearby and a short walk from the village. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when the surroundings are quiet and the light is soft.
A local story tells of a pine tree that reportedly grew overnight in the 15th century, marking a sign of divine power at the site. A memorial stone commemorates this event today, and many believe the tree's spirit still offers protection to visitors.
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