Sai Shrine （さいじんじゃ）

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Area: Iki

Category: History＆Culture

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This shrine is dedicated to the goddess Sarume-no-Mikoto of Japanese mythology. Many people come here to pray for good matches, safe births, marital harmony, healing from venereal diseases, and protection for children. Numerous items relating to intercourse have also been dedicated and placed inside the pavilion. The large carving of the phallus and the stone statue, placed on either side of the altar, are the goshintai (the shrine's objects of worship).
These are bathed in a divine glow when they are lit up brightly in the evening.
It is said that women who touch this holy object will be blessed with marriage, safe birth, and healing from venereal diseases, while men will be able to stay virile and enjoy their lives for a long time.

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Information

Address		811-5136　長崎県壱岐市郷ノ浦町片原触113
Access		4 minutes by car from Gonoura Port
Website		Tripadvisor

The deity of Sai is originally one of protection from pestilence and traffic accidents. No one knows when this shrine was first built, but the goddess Sarume-no-Mikoto is enshrined in the main sanctuary.
This goddess, who appears in Japanese mythology and is the wife of the god Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto, is also said to be the very first dancer in Japan and is the popular guardian deity of performing arts.
Many people come to this shrine to pray for good matches, martial harmony, healing from venereal diseases, and protection for children. Numerous items relating to intercourse have also been dedicated and placed inside the pavilion. Neighboring Yasaka Shrine venerates the god of males and dedicates a traditional Kagura dance here at Sai Shrine during the annual Gion Festival in July.