Located in the town of Daisen, Gunma Prefecture, Kuchisake no Kami Shrine is dedicated to the vengeful spirit of a woman who was brutally disfigured by her husband and later became a yurei. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as one of Japan's most famous 'curse' shrines. Visitors can experience the eerie atmosphere and pray for protection from evil spirits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kuchisake no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Kuchisake no Kami
- Coordinates
- 36.3412435, 138.7248079
Visitor tip
To avoid missing the best time for prayer, arrive at dawn or dusk when the sun's rays cast an eerie glow on the shrine grounds.
Cultural notes
This shrine is often visited by women seeking protection from unrequited love and the spirits of yurei, as Kuchisake no Kami is said to appear only to those who are brutally disfigured or betrayed. Visitors can also experience a unique tradition called 'tsumigusa' where rice fields in front of the shrine are left unplanted during the spring season, allowing the wild grasses to grow and symbolize the spirit's presence.
Historical note
Founded during the Edo period (1603-1867), the shrine is believed to have been built on the site of a former samurai residence.