Dosojin or Dōsojin (道祖神) are well-loved Japanese Kami from Shinto philosophy. People believe that these friendly deities protect travelers on their trip and serve to protect paths and boundaries. Dōsojin come in many different forms such as carved stones, individual statues and other ornaments. They are often depicted as a human couple, which is also a symbol of marriage and fertility.
Dōsojin can be found at many different places in Japan. Small rural towns often place them along the towns boundaries, mountain paths and in front of bridges. They are also frequently integrated in Hokora, which are small Shinto shrines along the road.
Specifications
- Depth = 28.35 inch
- Width = 18.11 inch
- Height = 26.38 inch
- Origin: Nagoya, Aichi prefecture, Japan
- Material: Hirukawa Stone (蛭川石)
- Age: Shōwa period