Kashii-gū, Shinto shrine in Higashi-ku, Japan
Kashii-gū is a Shinto shrine in the Kashii district of Higashi-ku, its main hall built in a style found nowhere else. The buildings show north-facing roofs with curved lines and dark timber supported by long rows of pillars.
The site began in the eighth century as a tomb and was formally established as a shrine in 725. Over the centuries it received repeated imperial support, cementing its link to court ceremony.
The name honors Emperor Chūai, whose tomb rests within the grounds, and his consort, who chose this location as a memorial site. Visitors see offerings and prayer plaques around the shrine buildings, reflecting the daily need for intercession.
A wide path lined with tall camphor trees runs from the entrance to the main building, offering continuous shade. The site sits close to residential areas and is easily reached on foot or by bicycle.
An old cedar tree stands on the grounds, and local accounts say it was planted to mark the founding. Many locals leave offerings at its roots, giving it a small devotional site of its own.
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