Konpira Gongensha Shrine

Konpira Gongensha Shrine in Aridagawa has been active since 1823, drawing two distinct groups of worshippers over the centuries: loggers and sailors. Before log drives moved timber downstream, loggers prayed here for protection against drowning and crushing in logjams. Enlisted sailors from the area also visited before deployment, while their families walked the shrine approach 100 times to offer 100 prayers for a safe return. The enshrined deity, Konpira Gongen, is associated with water and seafaring and serves as the divine protector of a key landmark used by ships navigating the Seto Inland Sea. The main festival falls in November.