【Yokai & Mystery】 A matchmaking system located deep in the mountains (Fukushima pref.)
There is a railway called the Tadami Line that runs from Koide in Uonuma, Niigata, a famous rice-producing region, to Aizu-Wakamatsu in Fukushima. It is famous for running through some of Japan's most spectacular scenic spots, so even if you are not particularly interested in travel or railways, many people may know about it.
It seems to be promoted as the 'Matchmaking Train' because it connects 'Koide (KOI: KOI means infatuation)' and 'Aizu-Wakamatsu (AI: AI means real love).'
Moreover, at 'Tadami Station,' which is almost at the center of the Tadami Line, there is a historic 'Matchmaking Shrine.' (Nihedon @ KesaranPasaran Lab)
If you buy an admission ticket at Tadami Station, you can get a case at the kiosk.
Unlike typical Shinto shrines, Mitsuishi Shrine enshrines as its sacred objects 'three massive mysterious rocks scattered in the mountains (Ichi-no-iwa, Ni-no-iwa, San-no-iwa).' This can be considered a major feature of 'Japan's ancient animism (nature worship).'
Each rock is said to hold its own legends and benefits.
Ichi-no-iwa: This is the first rock that appears when ascending the approach path. It is said that if you put your head into the hole in the rock and pray, it can cure head illnesses or make you smarter.
Ni-no-iwa (Namida-iwa): Also called 'Namida-iwa' (Tear Rock). Water constantly seeps from this rock, and it is believed that if you put this pure water in your eyes, eye diseases will be cured.
San-no-iwa (Enmusubi no Iwa): This is the most famous rock at the shrine, appearing further inside. Its surface has countless small holes, and it is said that performing specific prayers here will lead to good relationships.
Mitsuishi Shrine is mainly known for its benefits of 'matchmaking,' 'healing head ailments and academic success,' and 'curing eye diseases.' The unique prayer methods for each rock deepen this faith.
It is said that if you pass a twisted paper cord or raw silk through the hole in a porous rock and tie it with your thumb and little finger, it will form a bond, but it's quite difficult unless you are skillful. It seems that tying a bond also requires some knack.
It seems that 'if you put your head into this hole and pray, your mind will improve and any head-related illnesses will be cured,' but I don't have the courage to put my head into a hole like that...
This is 'Namida Iwa' (Tear Rock). Water seeps from the rock all year round, and it is said that washing your eyes with this water cures eye diseases.
