Shikoku Anan | Found a Maneki Neko Shrine Hidden in the Mountains
“Omatsu Daigongen” is a shrine I found through a tourist information center. I was first attracted by the Maneki Neko, and after checking, I found that it was less than an hour's drive away, and the whole journey was on the highway, so I decided to go.
🚗 How to get there
We drove. There is a parking lot outside the shrine, and there are not many cars, so you can park with confidence. But the mountain road is very narrow, so be careful when driving.
Please note that the shrine closes at 5 pm. You can visit, but due to the lighting, there may not be much to see, so it is recommended to go early. Otherwise, you won't be able to buy Omamori.
By bus:
JR Anan Station → Take the Anan Bus bound for Kamo, get off at Omatsu Daigongen, about 40 minutes.
🚶 What to see
1️⃣ After parking, there is a hand-washing pool, and a Maneki Neko is waiting for you here. Remember to wash your hands before entering the shrine.
2️⃣ A black and white kitten will follow you, so cute! It seems to be welcoming us.
3️⃣ The gate of the shrine is very old. It is said that it was built by villagers in the Edo period to sympathize with a cat who was entrusted with resentment by its owner. It is known as the god of competition and the god of wishes.
4️⃣ There are small cat paw prints on the road from the hand-washing pool to the gate of the shrine, which are very cute.
5️⃣ There is a large newly built Maneki Neko next to the gate of the shrine.
6️⃣ The Omamori are also small cats, and there are many small cat statues in the shrine.
7️⃣ There is a Buddhist temple behind the shrine. Because it was late, we didn't go to see it. Next time, we will come earlier!