The Kitano shrine is a lovely and peaceful shrine located just north of Nikko’s most popular shrines. This shrine is visited by people who wish for a successful pregnancy. Couples expecting come to the shrine and borrow a Kyousha (usually a part of the Shougi game). After the birth of the baby, they bring back the Kyousha with a new one with the baby’s name, therefore more and more Kyousha accumulate on the shelves of the shrine. The reason behind this is that in the Shougi game the Kyousha can only go forward and therefore symbolizes a safe and easy delivery!
Kyousha
Gate and moss
Kitano statue #3
Kitano shrine
share photos of Japan from GaijinGoJapan