This wooden plate comes from Kotohira-gū (金刀比羅宮), the famous Shinto shrine located on Mount Zōzu in Kagawa Prefecture, often affectionately called “Konpira-san.” The shrine has long been revered as a protector of seafarers, sailors, and travelers, and it remains one of Shikoku’s most important pilgrimage destinations.
The front of the plaque features elegant gold lettering on a deep black lacquered background. The characters 金刀比羅 identify the sacred site, referring to Kotohira-gū, while the red seal 参拝記念 indicates that the piece commemorates a pilgrimage visit to the shrine. The bold circular crest surrounding the character 金 evokes the shrine’s traditional emblematic style.
The reverse side bears the phrase おひらひら 蝶も金刀比羅参り哉, a poetic expression suggesting that “even butterflies fluttering by seem to be making a pilgrimage to Konpira.” Beneath the inscription is a delicate gold illustration of the shrine buildings, capturing the architecture of the sacred complex reached by climbing its famous long stone staircase of over 1,300 steps.
Suspended from a braided cord and small bell, the plaque carries the same protective symbolism often found in shrine charms. The bell’s gentle sound is traditionally believed to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune.
