A Shinto shrine in Fukushima Prefecture dedicated to the memory of an uneme (court lady) from ancient Japan. The shrine honors the tragic story of a court attendant who served the imperial court during the Nara or Heian period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Uneme (court lady spirit)
- Founding
- Heian period
- Coordinates
- 37.4214823, 140.2952034
Visitor tip
The shrine offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere perfect for reflection on the historical role of court ladies in ancient Japan.
Cultural notes
Uneme were female attendants who served food and drink at the imperial court during the Nara and Heian periods. The tragic tales of these court ladies, often involving themes of love, loss, and devotion, became important elements in Japanese literature and folklore.
Historical note
The shrine commemorates the legend of an uneme (female court attendant) who reportedly took her own life due to lost imperial favor or unrequited love. Such shrines were established to appease the spirit of the deceased court lady and prevent any vengeful actions. The specific historical details of this particular uneme's story have been preserved in local tradition.