Hitsuji-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Hitsuji-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Annaka with simple wooden structures that blend into the surrounding greenery. A Torii gate marks the entrance, and a stone path called the Sando guides visitors toward the main hall, which features a traditional thatched roof and paper windows.
The shrine was built many decades ago by villagers who wanted a place to honor their traditions and connect with the spiritual world. Over time, it remained a simple, respected center for the local community.
Hitsuji-jinja means 'Sheep Shrine' in Japanese, and this connection shapes how the place is experienced today. Small animal statues and symbols throughout the grounds reflect local beliefs about purity and nature, and visitors can observe these details while walking through the space.
The shrine is easily accessible by local transport or car and welcomes both first-time visitors and regular worshippers. Remember to wash your hands at the water basin before entering the main hall and bow as a sign of respect for the space.
The name refers to sheep, and local traditions connect these animals to the shrine in a way that is uncommon among lesser-known Japanese shrines. This connection makes it a distinctive spot for visitors seeking unusual elements within traditional spaces.
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