Kame-kodaimaya Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Katsuta, Chiba Prefecture. The name 'kame' refers to turtles, and 'ko' means child, suggesting that the shrine may have been associated with the protection of children or the symbol of turtle. According to local legend, the shrine was founded by a local deity who descended from the heavens in the form of a turtle. Visitors can explore the main hall, which houses a large wooden statue of the primary kami, Hikokuro no okami (Horse Lord), as well as several smaller shrines dedicated to various regional deities.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hikokuro no okami (Horse Lord)
- Kami enshrined
- Hikokuro no okami, Local deities
- Coordinates
- 35.7015994, 140.8626116
Visitor tip
To honor the turtle deity, visitors can make an offering of a small stone or pebble at the shrine's entrance.
Cultural notes
Kame-kodaimaya Shrine is also associated with the local legend of the 'Turtle Child,' which tells the story of a child who was said to have been saved by a turtle from a well. The legend has been passed down through generations and remains an important part of local folklore.
Historical note
The shrine is believed to have been founded during the Edo period (1603-1867).