Kurashiki | 12 zodiac signs with bad luck sticks. Achi Shrine has three goddesses and the god of learning.

I returned to Okayama in late summer and early autumn, and as usual, I visited Achi Shrine. It's a stunning vantage point, offering breathtaking views of the old houses of Kurashiki. Of course, I also paid my respects to the Three Goddesses of Munakata, chatted with them, and finally drew a fortune.

Interestingly, after six months, a new installation has been added: the tree where the fortune sticks are tied now features the faces of the 12 zodiac animals, allowing worshippers to choose according to their own zodiac sign. A closer look reveals that the 12 signs are fairly evenly distributed, suggesting a busy shrine. First, draw a fortune stick at the entrance to the shrine office, then tell the staff which one you drew, according to the ai-ueo sign. If it's a lucky sign, take it home. If it's an unlucky sign, tie it here to ask the deity to ward off bad luck. There are also flower entwines here, promising good relationships and a good marriage.

I've been here many times, but for the first time, I discovered two small shrines behind the main hall. One is dedicated to the god Inari, and the other to the god Sugawara no Michizane. The altars are filled with tumbled dolls, symbolizing the children's wishes for successful exams. The flower-filled water changes from spring wisteria to early summer hydrangeas to maple leaves, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the changing seasons in the waterside pavilion.

📍Address: 12-1 Honmachi, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-0054, Japan
🚗A 15-minute walk from Kurashiki Station
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Post by 旅行中的野馬 | Oct 3, 2025