祠(ほこら)

ほこら
noun
small shrine, wayside shrine
building
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(みちばた)に小(ちい)さな祠(ほこら)がある。
There is a small shrine by the roadside.
山道(やまみち)の途中(とちゅう)で古(ふる)い祠(ほこら)を見(み)つけた。
I found an old wayside shrine partway along the mountain trail.
村(むら)の人(ひと)たちは、大木(たいぼく)の根元(ねもと)にある祠(ほこら)に毎朝(まいあさ)花(はな)を供(そな)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(じんじゃ) (Shinto shrines), sometimes no bigger than a birdhouse.

Similar words

  • 神社(じんじゃ): a formal Shinto shrine with buildings and grounds
  • 社(やしろ): a shrine (somewhat literary)
  • 地蔵(じぞう): a Buddhist roadside statue (different tradition but similar wayside placement)

Common collocations

Related Words

Related: 神社(じんじゃ) (Shinto shrine)
general
Added 2026.2.27 14:11 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
13500/13837_hokora