Finally...
I finally made it (*-`)
To Kotozaki Hachimangu Shrine in Ube City! 😆
I kept thinking, "I should go, I should go..." but then the New Year arrived, and before I knew it, it was already February. Time really flies, doesn't it? 😓
Our schedules finally aligned, and I headed out thinking, "Today's the day!" but—
The weather was, of course...
Snow ❄⛄
And it wasn't just any snow.
It was an unexpected blizzard 🤣✨
It was falling so hard I could barely see in front of me, and while I wondered, "Is this a test?", I couldn't help but laugh. I thought to myself, there probably aren't many people who would head to a shrine on a day like this...
But I won't give up!!
I arrived safely and paid my respects properly. And now for the purpose of this trip—
I got the amulet I was looking for 😆
Now, does everyone know about this?
This Kotozaki Hachimangu Shrine is actually said to have the largest variety of amulets in Japan.
As of New Year's in the 8th year of Reiwa, they apparently distribute about 1,000 different types of amulets! Because of this abundance, it is often featured in various media, and it seems many worshippers visit not only from within the prefecture but also from outside it.
The number of amulets lined up at the reception desk is truly overwhelming. With so many different colors, shapes, and designs, the time spent choosing, thinking "This one is nice, that one is interesting too," is a fun moment in itself.
Beyond the standard ones for traffic safety, safe childbirth, and matchmaking, what's amazing is that they even have amulets tailored to club activities. They cater to specific wishes, such as sports-related ones or academic success.
And my recommendation is—
the New Year's fortune slip that starts on January 1st 🥠!
On a first-come, first-served basis, you can receive an ema (votive tablet) made from a scallop (?) shell. It even comes with a cute Seven Lucky Gods figurine, making it quite luxurious! It feels very auspicious right from the start of the new year 😁
There are also love fortune slips popular with women and children's fortune slips for kids, making it a place the whole family can enjoy. It's a shrine where visiting feels like a little event.
Visiting in the snow was quite tough, but the time spent with my hands pressed together in the cold air felt somewhat solemn. I truly feel glad that I made the trip, even in a blizzard.
When you visit Ube City, please try to stop by Kotozaki Hachimangu Shrine at least once.
You're sure to find an amulet you'll love 😁✨
And if you're lucky... you might even get to experience a blizzard yourself? 🤣❄
Everyone, please, by all means, Kotozaki Hachimangu Shrine do try visiting it😁