【オススメ神社】

This shrine was founded by the Kai Shrine, also located in Uda City, to pray for rain. It enshrines the Dragon God, and there is a Dragon God waterfall. It is said that the Dragon God lives in the emerald green waterfall basin. My husband couldn't find it even with Google Maps, but as someone who brings rain wherever I go, I found it right away. Maybe the Dragon God who brings rain really lives there (lol) By the way, you can't get it here, but they also have Goshuin (temple stamps)! There's another shrine related to dragons in Uda City, Nara Prefecture, called 'Ryuketsu Shrine'. I plan to visit that one next time.

This shrine is well-known as the setting for the Amanoiwato myth. At Amanoiwato Shrine (Nishi-Hongu), there is the Amanoiwato cave where Amaterasu Omikami hid. To worship directly, you can get guided tours by making a reservation about every 30 minutes (photography is prohibited). I went during Golden Week, so it was so crowded I couldn't get in (crying). Amanoyasugawara Shrine is said to be the place where the myriad gods gathered to discuss matters when Amaterasu Omikami hid and the world fell into darkness. It is said that stacking stones will grant your wishes. Because it's the place that brought light back to the world, it's said to have powerful benefits such as good fortune and wish fulfillment. By the way, you can get the goshuin (shrine seal) for Amanoyasugawara Shrine at Amanoiwato Shrine (Nishi-Hongu).

Located on the border of Nagano and Gunma Prefectures, the Nagano side is called 'Kumano Sumeramikoto Shrine' and the Gunma side is 'Kumano Shrine'. They are separate shrines despite being next to each other. The main shrine building, offering box, and shrine office are all separate. It is said to have benefits such as traffic safety, safe travel, and the power to overcome difficulties, originating from the legend of the Yatagarasu (eight-foot crow) that guided Yamato Takeru. Kumano Sumeramikoto Shrine is a pet-friendly shrine. There's a 'paw print' stamp to wish for your dog's health, and you can also get a special Goshuin (temple/shrine seal) if you come with your dog. They also have amulets ♪♪ (regular ones are available too). Of course, I got one with my dog too ♡

Lately, I've been collecting goshuin (stamps from shrines and temples), and since my hometown has quite a few shrines, I go often. I'd like to visit Kanda Myojin. I recently saw a post on social media saying that after praying there, a harassing boss just faded out. Masakado-sama is so cool!

It's said to be the setting for the tale of the 'White Rabbit of Inaba' and is believed to grant blessings for matchmaking and healing. Why matchmaking for the White Rabbit of Inaba??... It stems from the myth where it mediated the relationship between Okuninushi no Mikoto and Yagami-hime. Due to the story of saving a wounded rabbit, it seems to offer benefits for animal welfare, skin diseases, and wound healing. When I visited, a typhoon was approaching, so the sea at Okinoshima (Hakuto Coast) was very rough. Speaking of which... there was that incident recently where a large amount of bread was dumped on Hakuto Coast~. We shouldn't waste food!

I went after hearing about it from an acquaintance! Apparently... only those who are 'called' can reach it. Like, you couldn't go because of a typhoon, or another plan came up when you tried to go. They say it's a power spot. I got there just fine though (lol)

I think the Udo Shrine in Miyazaki, which I visited on a trip before, is quite unique because its main shrine is located inside a cave 😊

It's been hot lately and I've been sweating a lot, so I've been craving salty foods. I eat Iekei ramen once a week.

Thick-cut beef tongue is definitely the best!

Rather than a specific recommendation, this is a general suggestion. It really depends on what kind of 'bad luck' you're experiencing, but for now, I'd recommend Kyoto, as it has many shrines and temples...! Their Japanese sweets are also delicious ☺