Standing here, before the unassuming yet significant 上段の間 Stele, you might not realize you are standing on hallowed ground. This weathered stone marks more than just a place – it whispers of lineage, faith, and the enduring spirit of Miyajima Island. The inscription on the 上段の間 Stele tells the story of the Hayashi family. For generations, they served as priests of Itsukushima Shrine, guardians of its sacred traditions. This lineage, known as “Shoukei,” dates back to the Edo period. Imagine the Hayashi in their roles, intermediaries between the divine and the people, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of this mystical island. The 上段の間 Stele, though modest in appearance, stands testament to their dedication. It reminds us that even seemingly small corners of the world hold stories. Stories that connect us to the past and illuminate the enduring power of human belief.
芸州廿日市御本陣旧跡
“A castle built on the plain?” you might ask. “Isn’t that a bit…exposed?” And indeed, the Hiroshima Gokoku Jinja, the