Kotohira Shrine in Takamatsu (1)π
During the Edo period, the "Kotohira pilgrimage" had become the second-largest pilgrimage activity after the "Mikoshi pilgrimage" to the Ise Shrine. π’π Shugenja practitioners in white robes traveled across the country, and the long-nosed Tengu on their backs left a deep impression on the public. πΊπTengu were seen as the "retinue" of Kotohira Gongen, and it was said that they were the vengeful spirits of Emperor Sutoku, who was exiled to Sanuki and died at Sonso-ji Temple. π¦ In the Meiji period, when Shinto and Buddhism were separated, the Buddhist-origin Kotohira Gongen was sidelined, and the unrelated "O-kuninushi-no-kami" was brought in as the main deity. π’π However, the people didn't care: whether it was a god, Buddha, or bodhisattva, as long as it could bless safe navigation, it was fine. The "Tengu" Emperor Sutoku continued to be a companion deity, which brings a smile to people's faces. π π’π #Takamatsu π
