Overview
The Yokai Shrine is a one-of-a-kind shrine on Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato City, Tottori Prefecture, dedicated to yokai, the spirits and monsters of Japanese folklore. Founded in 2000, it was created around the world of the manga GeGeGe no Kitaro. It is run by a company called Eyes based in Taishomachi, Sakaiminato, and has become a signature stop for travellers strolling the road. Full of playfulness and storytelling, it feels quite different from a traditional shrine.
Highlights
- ●A shrine with the unique concept of enshrining yokai
- ●A space designed around the world of GeGeGe no Kitaro
- ●A location perfect for a stop while walking Mizuki Shigeru Road
- ●The novelty of a shrine founded in 2000 from tourism culture
History
The Yokai Shrine was established in 2000. As its name suggests, its theme is the enshrinement of yokai, and its defining feature is that it was built to reflect the world of the manga GeGeGe no Kitaro. It is operated by Eyes, a company based in Taishomachi, Sakaiminato. Rather than an old, historic shrine, it is a new one born from the tourism culture of Mizuki Shigeru Road, and can be seen as a symbol of the town's storytelling.
Access
The shrine stands along Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato City, Tottori Prefecture, at roughly 35.55 degrees north and 133.23 degrees east. Sakaiminato is known as the terminus of the JR Sakai Line and is famous for its town planning themed on yokai. Its location lets you drop in naturally while walking the road, which is lined with many bronze statues of yokai and themed shops. Please check opening hours and other details in official sources.
Best season
It can be enjoyed year-round alongside a stroll down Mizuki Shigeru Road. Since the visit centres on walking outdoors, the mild seasons of spring and autumn are especially recommended. In summer, guard against the daytime heat; in winter, prepare for the changeable weather typical of the Sea of Japan side. At dusk you can also savour the distinctive mood of this town of monsters.
Map
35.5458, 133.2258 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Begin a stroll along Mizuki Shigeru Road from Sakaiminato Station
- 2Walk while admiring the bronze yokai statues lining the road
- 3Stop at the Yokai Shrine to take in its distinctive yokai-themed world
- 4Hunt for yokai-motif goods and souvenirs at the nearby shops
Did you know?
💡 The very idea of enshrining yokai is what makes this shrine so intriguing, shining a light on beings quite unlike the usual objects of traditional faith. Because it is based on the world of GeGeGe no Kitaro, fans of the work and of yokai can enjoy it almost as a pilgrimage, making it a spot full of playful spirit.
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