Otoshi-sha

The final stop on the Hattatsu-mairi pilgrimage of shrines in the precinct, Otoshi-sha is where people pray for the realization of their most heartfelt wishes. In ancient times, it was venerated as a deity of good crops and bountiful harvests, but in early modern times, it began to attract businesspeople, who prayed for profit and enduring contracts. It has since become a shrine to offer up gratitude for success in business.

Worshippers can obtain a small stone, called an Otoshi Mamori, with the character for “big” written on it, as a talisman to attract profits.

Inside the grounds of Otoshi-sha, there is a small Hokora shrine called Oitoshiboshi-sha. In front of this shrine’s altar, there are three stones, known as Omokaru-ishi. Worshippers who have a goal they want to achieve can lift one of these stones, pray with their hands still on the stone, and then lift it again. Depending on whether the stone seems lighter or heavier the second time, they will know if their goal has been achieved or if more effort is needed.

Deity of profit and realization of earnest prayers