Located in the heart of Shikoku, Oboke's Obo-ji Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Shime, a minor deity associated with fishing and rice farming. Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), this shrine is renowned for its unique architecture, featuring a vermilion torii gate adorned with beautiful paintings of the goddess Shime. The shrine's grounds are said to be blessed by numerous regional kami, including those associated with water and fertility.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- Shime
- Coordinates
- 34.1057725, 134.5754351
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during cherry blossom season ( late March to early April) and explore the surrounding rice fields, which are said to bring good luck and prosperity.
Cultural notes
The shrine is an important site for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a centuries-old Buddhist pilgrimage that passes by this sacred place. Shime is often invoked by fishermen and farmers seeking bountiful harvests and safe voyages at sea. Visitors can also observe traditional Japanese rituals, such as purification ceremonies performed with holy water from nearby wells.
Historical note
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