賀來神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Kakajinja is a Shinto shrine in Ōita featuring simple dark wooden structures with traditional Japanese roofing and well-maintained stone pathways. The grounds include a quiet main hall, carefully tended trees, stone lanterns with carved mice, and four pairs of guardian dog statues called komainu positioned at the entrance.
The shrine has served the local community for many years and is deeply rooted in local traditions and beliefs. It is known for its fall festivals held every 6 years, during which about 150 people participate in a traditional procession carrying a log, and deities from a nearby palace return to the shrine.
The shrine is dedicated to the local deity Takano Iwarehiko and visitors regularly come to pray and leave small offerings as part of their spiritual practice. People write their wishes on small wooden plaques called ema and hang them throughout the grounds, a custom that remains active today.
The shrine is easily reached by bus from the main parts of the city and is only about a minute walk from the bus stop. It is recommended to visit in early morning or late afternoon when gentle light falls on the wooden structures, and in the evening when the lanterns are lit.
The stone lanterns feature two mice carved into the fire baskets, with a cat sitting nearby watching them quietly. This unusual detail is a rare artistic touch that visitors often overlook but reveals a thoughtful touch by local craftspeople.
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