⛩️ Shinmei Shrine

Behind the approach path stands the shrine dedicated to the deity "Amaterasu Omikami," located in a tranquil forest. Next to the shrine is an ancient, withered camphor tree, revered as a sacred tree that grants longevity. There is a cave in the middle of the tree, where it is said that defeated Genji soldiers hid during times of war. The branch shrine of the deity is a stone shrine known as "Ishigami San," which is said to grant one wish to women who come to pray. The enshrined deity, Tamayori-hime, is the daughter of the sea god and the guardian of the ocean, as well as the mother of Emperor Jimmu. Various prayers related to women, such as for matchmaking and safe childbirth, can be made here, attracting many women to worship in this area, which has the highest number of ama (female divers). The protective charms feature unique patterns of squares and stars. These designs were drawn by the ama to protect themselves from sea demons and disasters, serving as incantations on the isozuke (the attire worn by ama when diving). The square pattern, called "Doman," represents the use of many eyes to deter demons. The stars, referred to as "Seman," can be drawn in one stroke back to the starting point, symbolizing the wish for the ama to safely return after diving into the sea.

Popular energy spots attract many women to visit. The ama (female divers) also come to pray at the shrine for safety. There are also omamori (protective charms) that symbolize the warding off of evil.