Hayasuhime Shrine in Oita prefecture is a rarity in Japan because it is dedicated to the octopus. When local sculptor Kousei Hashimoto was tasked with creating a new deity to be enshrined, he expected for it to be completed by the end of the year. But the neighborhood cats had different plans.
Hashimoto explained that, because the sculpture was made from cardboard, cats kept coming around and using it as a scratching post so he had to constantly make repairs. What’s more, he would find cats sleeping with it in order to keep warm during the cold winter months.
Although the deity was recently enshrined, Hashimoto may find himself with a never-ending job.
According to legend, a giant octopus once guarded a sacred sword at the bottom of the nearby Hayasui Strait. The shrine, which is dedicated to this deity, is popular for praying for good fortune and safety at sea.
A popular ceremony involves donating a drawing of an octopus and praying for safety. During the period, worshippers must abstain from eating octopus in order for the prayer to work. For this reason, the main hall is also decorated with drawings of octopuses from past ceremonies, creating a surreal sight.
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