ARAI SHRINE

Holy history, Batman.

So Arai shrine dates all the way back to 1320. Yes, she’s old. It was originally built for locals to pray for a lucrative fishing season and it still serves that same purpose today. That’s why it was built on a coastal hillside overlooking the ocean. So not only does this shrine offer luck, but also some gorgeous views of the area.

For those who’ve visited a shrine before, you’ll know the drill but for those who haven’t, please feel free to participate freely and respectfully by making a prayer donation. This typically consists of placing any amount of money (coins are totally OK) in the donation box. The donation box is usually a wooden box with a wooden grill / slatted lid through which the money can be thrown in. After you make the donation, you can then pray to the god(s) at the shrine for a benediction (a delicious seafood meal, perhaps?) in any way you deem appropriate. Most visitors to the temple will either clasp their hands together in the classic western “prayer” pose, clap their hands twice, bow their heads in prayer or a combination of the three. This can also be combined with a ringing of the shrine bell by grabbing the super thick rope hanging from the shrine’s roof and giving it a good shake.

So if you’re looking for that instaworthy shot as well as a healthy climb up to the top, Arai shrine should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

Address: 414-0043 Japan, Shizuoka Prefecture, Ito City Arai 2-15-1