Myojinbara Ruins

In the southeastern part of Kiyama, there is a place called “Tako-no-Hashira,” or “octopus head,” which protrudes into the plain, and is dotted with giant stones, including one called Toriboshi Iwa (bird hat rock). It is said to be the place where Sugawara no Michizane, the provincial governor, read a ritual text to the god of Shiroyama and prayed for rain.

In 886 (Ninna 2), Michizane was transferred from the capital to Sanuki Province, and during a drought in 888 (Ninna 4), he prayed to the deity of Shiroyama here at Myojinbara for rain. As a result, rain fell beautifully, and the people were very happy. The people's dance of thanksgiving later became the Nenbutsu Odori (Buddhist prayer dance) and has been handed down to future generations. Myojinbaru is said to be the original site of Kiyama Shrine, which was considered sacred from ancient times as a place where the gods descended.