Kanbashira-gū, Shinto shrine in Japan
Kanbashira-gū is a Shinto shrine in Miyakonojō built in the nagare-zukuri style with a gently curved roof. The grounds include two smaller shrines and are surrounded by old trees that give the place a sense of history and calm.
The shrine was founded in 1026 when samurai Taira no Suemoto followed a message from goddess Amaterasu instructing him to build a sanctuary at this location. In 1873, the site was moved to its current place, where it has remained an important gathering point for the community for nearly a thousand years.
The shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and Toyoukehime, the goddess of harvest. Visitors leave small wooden plaques with wishes and coins as offerings, showing how daily devotion connects this place to the local community.
The shrine is about 10 minutes walking distance from Miyakonojo Station and has parking available nearby for those arriving by car. Visitors should use the washing basin to rinse their hands and mouth before entering the main shrine, an important custom of respect and purification.
The shrine houses a sacred pillar called Kambashira, which according to local tradition connects heaven and earth and is believed to hold special spiritual power. Every June, lantern festivities take place where lights float in the air or are placed around the shrine grounds.
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