Shinto is a traditional Japanese belief that is different from Buddhism. Believing that there is a god or kami in all things In the era of the Chakrawan Niyom The Japanese government used to designate Shinto as the national religion. And it takes a lot of effort to push Until we can see traces of that effort until now For this article. We will introduce a shrine that is said to be the smallest in Japan.

Toyama-Chuukyouin

The smallest shrine in Japan is known as Toyama-Chuukyouin is locate in the heart of the city in Toyama Prefecture. Both sides are flank by commercial buildings. Make it look superficially Barely didn’t know it was a shrine.

The torii pillar in front of the shrine is about 2 people wide standing in front of the board. The interior of the shrine. It is only 1.8 meters wide and has a total area of ​​6.3 square meters due to the narrow that it is a feature. Most people therefore make wishes for competitive entrance examinations or employment.

This shrine was built in the year. It was establish in 1873 by the Meiji era government (1868 – 1912) with the aim of spreading Shinto throughout the country. Later the year. In 1945, it was severely damage by the aftermath of World War II, and later the devout local residents rebuilt the shrine. But by the danger of war There was not enough space and capital to build a large shrine. Therefore is the size as seen today

The shrine has always been support by local residents and shops. The main objective is to preserve the community’s faith center. Later in 2020, it has undergone major renovations such as replacing the old buildings that have deteriorated over time. And reinforce the strength of the roof to support the weight of the falling snow By the restoration this time was a result of the cooperation of the people in the community. To preserve the local sacred sites.

Location: 2 Chome-4 Chuodori, Toyama, 930-0044, Japan

Although it is not officially recognize as the smallest shrine in Japan. But the local people have been proud and have maintained this shrine with the community for centuries. This shows the link between community and Shinto. Which is a legacy of efforts to uphold Lithi Shinto as the national religion of the Meiji government as well