Mikado-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Mikado-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Misato nestled among tall pine trees with a simple wooden structure and a red torii gate at its entrance. A stone path lined with small lanterns leads to the main building, which features traditional decorations including straw ropes and fox statues marking sacred spaces.
The shrine was founded in the early 700s and traces its origins to a Korean king named Teika-O who fled to Japan in the 7th century. Over many centuries it remained a place where local people gathered to pray and was later recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The shrine honors a Korean king named Teika-O whose legend has been remembered here for over a thousand years. Visitors can observe how the local community keeps this memory alive through annual rituals and festivals that connect old customs with present-day life.
The shrine is open around the clock and located a short drive from main roads in the area. The pathways are easily walkable and it is best to allow time to move slowly and take in the quiet forest surroundings at your own pace.
Each year the Shiwasu Festival takes place where priests carry a sacred object about 90 kilometers and locals light large bonfires to welcome them on their journey. Upon their return villagers paint their faces with charcoal and shout 'Osaraba' as a farewell, a custom that is rare in Japan.
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