Kishu Toshogu Shrine, known locally as Gongen-sama, was established in 1621 by Yorinobu Tokugawa, the 10th son of Ieyasu Tokugawa, the first feudal lord of the Kishu Tokugawa clan.
The Shinto shrine is designated an important cultural property of Japan.
It is located on a pine-covered mountain called Samurai Hill, and to reach it one must climb 108 stone steps and enter through a magnificent vibrant red tower gate, said to be the best in Kansai.
Looking back down the steps one is rewarded with a great view of Wakanoura Bay.
The main pavilion is decorated with elaborate sculptures and wall paintings from the early Edo period. It houses a collection of 17 important treasures, including armour, weapons, pottery, paintings and clothing.
Special occasions
People come to the shrine at different times of the year for different reasons. These include:
The Wakamatsuri festival is held in May, when white-clad devotees carry a mikoshi (portable shrine) down the 108 steps followed by hordes of worshippers, as shown in this painting on display at the shrine.
Mothers-to-be visit during their fifth month of pregnancy for the tightening of the Iwata belt. By tightening the obi around the foetus, pregnant women pray for a safe delivery.
Newborn babies are brought to the shrine during their first few months to pray for healthy growth and happiness.
Students will come during the exam season to pray for success in their exams.
Coming-of-age ceremonies are also a popular time to visit shrines.
Kishu Toshogu Shrine
2 Chome-1-20 Wakauranishi
Wakayama
641-0024, Japan
Tel: +81 7344 40808
This article first appeared in Malaysia Traveller.
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