Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine by ramumi8
The stairs lead you up through the tall cedar trees where you are transported to a green and sacred space. Along the path 50 pairs of stone lanterns are placed giving the shrine its mystical atmosphere, which inspired an animator into making the anime, Hotarubi no Mori e or Into the Forest of the Fireflies. Â
According to Japanese mythology, the shrine is dedicated to the first female and male deities, Izanami and Izanagi. They were the first Shinto kami to marry and so the shrine often attract people praying for good relationships. There is also the legend of a demon called Kihachi which dwells in the nearby mountain.Â
It’s interesting to know that behind every shrines and temples, there are some histories and legends behind it, which you can read more here.
