Tosa shrine (Kochi)
This is the Ichinomiya (the shrine of the highest rank) in Kochi. The Miyajishi (shrine guardian lions) enshrined in the worship hall are made of Bizen ware; the figure on the left—the A-gyō (depicted with its mouth open)—was created in 1866, while the one on the right—the Un-gyō (with its mouth closed)—was made in 2011. It took over 140 years for the pair to be completed. They possess expressive faces that evoke a sense of familiarity. Behind the main hall lies a refreshing forest; after paying your respects, I encourage you to take a leisurely stroll through the woods and feel the sacred atmosphere.
