The torii gate is topped with plush-like “ears” at the newly established shrine for plush toys in the Miyamacho district in Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture, on July 7, 2026. (Mainichi/Satoshi Kubo)
What is the central purpose of Nuigurumi Jinja, which opened in Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture?
A) Offering pilgrimages and nature tours for Kyoto visitors
B) Hosting memorial services for the surrounding forest
C) Offering blessings and memorial services for cherished stuffed toys
D) Preserving unused shrine buildings from the Edo period
Correct answer: C)
Nuigurumi Jinja opened in June in Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture, as a shrine dedicated to gratitude for stuffed toys. It was founded by Komichi Horiguchi, 51, who runs a “hospital” for repairing worn and damaged plush toys. The shrine offers blessings and memorial services for stuffed animals and includes plush-themed features such as a special torii gate, purification basin and guardian lion-dogs. Plans are also underway for a space to hold ashes from plush companions cremated during memorial rites.
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AloJapan.com