Awashima Shrine was built in 1812 so in a sense compared to other Shrines in Nagasaki it is a rather young and hasn't got a long and rich history but it is what the Shrine stands for and that people believe in its powers which makes it such a popular and well visited place. The Shrine has a series of small Torii's which are the gate entrances to the shrines. Most shrine gate entrances are measured in metres and I mean 5 to 10 meters in height, however the Awashima Shrines Torii's are measured in centimeters and not meters.
If one passes through these gate entrances it is said that it will assure a smooth and safe delivery for mother and child once she becomes pregnant and will allow women who are having problem to become pregnant in the future as well if all 3 gate entrances can be passed through.
The smallest Torii is only 27 centimeters high but I can tell you that it looks so much smaller than this. In fact, I could hardly get my head through the gate entrance let along my large frame and shoulders as well as other parts of my body. Whilst I was there I didn't actually see anyone pass through these Torii's but I have been told by many people that it is possible and done on a regular basis. Now that is something that I need to see for myself in order to believe something that I honestly think is impossible!
Please check out Awashima Shrine here below:
Please click on the pics below to enlarge:
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| Looks like a rather usual shrine but it has an edge over the others! |
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Passing through the Torii's will promote fertility
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It has some of the smallest Torii's you will ever see!
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The average western woman has no chance to pass through!
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| Tiny gap |
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The 3 Torii's are actually different sizes
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| Peck a boo |
Please check out the Awashima Shrine Nagasaki in the video below:
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