Numerous frog statues are offered to the shrine while a worshipper pours water over them.
14:15 JST, September 7, 2024
TOSA, Kochi — The grounds of the Miroku Daimyojin Shrine in Tosa, Kochi Prefecture, are filled with frog statues. From large stone frogs to brown and yellow Shigaraki pottery, stuffed animals and even cups with frog designs, there are about 2,000 frog objects. These objects are placed around the offering box and under the lanterns.
Locally known as “Omiroku-sama,” this shrine has long been considered a cure for warts and other skin conditions. In recent years, it has gained a reputation for helping people with cancer—as cancer was interpreted as a type of internal wart—and draws worshipers from around the world.
The tradition of placing frog statues began about 40 years ago when a worshipper offered a wart-faced toad statue in gratitude for the shrine’s blessings. As news of the shrine spread, the number of frog objects increased.
Among the shrine’s visitors are patients who have been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Hideki Kuninori, a member of the local residents’ association that manages the shrine, said: “We are often asked whether our shrine really works, but it is up to the individual to believe in it. I hope it helps emotionally for those who are suffering.”
