お松大権現, Shinto shrine in Japan
O-Matsu Daigongen is a Shinto shrine located in Anan, with a large cherry tree on the grounds that blooms in spring. The shrine holds statues of cats, protective amulets, and wooden prayer tablets where visitors write their wishes.
The shrine was founded before the Edo period and served for centuries as a place of prayer for the local community. Legend tells of O-Matsu, a woman who stood against injustice and was executed, after which her spirit supposedly protected the area through a cat.
This shrine is known as the 'cat shrine' because of old stories connected to a legendary woman named O-Matsu and her cat. Visitors can see cat statues and decorations throughout the grounds that show how cats are part of the local tradition.
The shrine sits in a peaceful location that is easy to visit, with pathways through natural grounds and spaces for sitting and prayer. Visitors should expect more crowds during cherry blossom season and on festival days, especially around New Year and O-Matsu's death anniversary.
The shrine is known for its collection of lucky cat figures and protective amulets that visitors can take home. These portable cat talismans are popular with people seeking success in exams and job interviews.
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