# 淡嶋神社

> 位於加太的海濱神社，供奉少彥名命，據信保佑女性健康，並以供養而奉納的無數人形聞名。

- Prefecture: 和歌山県
- Type: Shrine
- Address: 和歌山県和歌山市
- Admission: Free
- Official site: https://www.kada.jp/awashima/

Awashima Shrine stands near the sea in the Kada district on the western edge of Wakayama City. It enshrines Sukunahikona, a deity linked to medicine, along with Okinagatarashihime, and is visited for prayers relating to women's health and safe childbirth. The shrine is best known for the thousands of dolls placed throughout its grounds, brought from across Japan for memorial rites rather than being discarded. Each year on March 3, the Hina-nagashi ceremony sends dolls out to sea on small wooden boats after a Shinto blessing. Dolls are accepted for memorial only in person, during set hours. The shrine is a walk from Kada Station and looks out toward the islands of Tomogashima.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Awashima Shrine?

It is about a 20-minute walk from Kada Station on the Nankai Kada Line.

### Why are there so many dolls at Awashima Shrine?

People bring dolls from all over Japan for memorial services rather than throwing them away, and the shrine holds a doll-floating ceremony each March 3.

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Source: 淡嶋神社 — Japan Voyage