1.
small shrine, wayside shrine, miniature shrine
A small, simple shrine typically found at roadsides, in forests, or at the base of trees or rocks. Much smaller than a formal shrine building, often housing a local deity or spirit.
道端に小さな祠がある。
There is a small shrine by the roadside.
山道の途中で古い祠を見つけた。
I found an old wayside shrine partway along the mountain trail.
村の人たちは、大木の根元にある祠に毎朝花を供えている。
The villagers offer flowers every morning at the small shrine at the base of the large tree.
CULTURAL NOTE:
Found throughout Japan at roadsides, mountain paths, and in neighborhoods. These miniature shrines enshrine local kami (deities) or spirits and are maintained by the local community. They are much smaller and simpler than formal 神社 (Shinto shrines), sometimes no bigger than a birdhouse.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 神社: a formal Shinto shrine with buildings and grounds
- 社: a shrine (somewhat literary)
- 地蔵: a Buddhist roadside statue (different tradition but similar wayside placement)
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 小さな祠: a small shrine
- 道端の祠: a roadside shrine
- 祠に手を合わせる: to pray at a small shrine
- 祠を祀る: to enshrine a deity in a small shrine