Traditional Crafts

Yanagawa Kamidana Household
Shinto ShrinesWoodwork/bamboo work

The production of household Shinto shrines in Yanagawa can be traced back to the Edo period (17th - 19th centuries), when craftsmen who made Yame Buddhist altars also started making household Shinto shrines as a side business. As such, they can be distinguished from household Shinto shrines from other areas as they make copious use of the techniques used to construct Buddhist altars. These shrines, which are made of high quality Japanese cypress from Kyushu using time-honored traditional techniques, serve to protect households from misfortune. Essentially, they act as a source of emotional support for the everyday person with hopes for prosperity. These shrines come in many forms depending on the shape of the roof and doors, including Dazaifu-style, Ise-style and Izumo-style.