Shun'ichi's grandfather (Zenchu) and grandmother (Mitsu)
Shun'ichi's grandparents on his father's side. His grandfather takes care of the sacred sites of the local community, a responsibility that has been passed down within his family for generations. The sacred site is located inside the grounds of the family residence.
 
日本語 | English |  中文 | 한국어
The local deity

In the back of this chamber there are three rocks that have been here since time immemorial. They embody the Fire God. This family has had the responsibility of honoring this deity since long ago. Behind this house is Men'naa Mountain, where in the past, a festival called Yamanaji was held in March. A pine tree would be cut down from the mountain and the wood used to cook a pig. This was offered to the Fire God. It is said that if you chop a tree from the mountain without permission, you will be punished by the Fire God. On Izena, there is a guardian deity like this one in each community.

Along the wall here, are the tablets of our ancestors. Whenever we have an event, our entire clan comes here to pray. We offer tea and water to our ancestors every day.

Q. What specific responsibilities do you have in caring for this deity?
I pray for an abundant harvest. Also, people of the village come here to pray for their health. I'm kind of like a Shinto priest.
Q. In the past, did you actually cook here?
No, we didn't. We have always prepared the food at home and brought it here to offer to the Fire Cod.
Q. What are these ashes?
Oh, these are just ashes. (Everybody laughs.) Ashes left from burning incense. Usually we use three sticks of incense, but when we are praying for something specific, we use twelve.