There is a unique temple dedicated to ‘God of Hair’ in this Asian country… |

While most travellers visit Japan to explore its cultural beauty and modern cities, there is one attraction that is particularly attracting travellers with no hair or less hair! Yes, you read that right. This must be among many unusual spots in Japan but surely there’s no other like the temple we are going to tell you about. This shrine is dedicated entirely to hair — its health, growth and everyday struggles and it is known as Mikami Shrine. Read on to know more about this unique shrine in Japan.Where is the hair shrine situated Not many must be aware of the fact that Mikami shrine is a unique temple in Kyoto, Japan which is dedicated to hairdressing and beauty (cosmetics, hair washes, hair growth products, wigs, among others). It is located close to the Torokko Arashiyama Station in Kyoto. This pretty little Shinto shrine is a local favorite. The most unique feature of the temple is that people come here to pray for beautiful, healthy and luscious locks. They come here to seek solutions and relief from hair loss. Fascinating right?Latest Social media sensationThe temple is a latest social media sensation and is being shared on various platforms. Mikami Shrine recently went viral for all the right reasons. Travel creators and curious wanderers have been sharing the story of the temple, making this tiny wonder one of Kyoto’s most talked-about hidden beauty. Who was the ‘God of Hair’Another best part of the temple is that Mikami Shrine honours a real person. Fujiwara Uneme no Sukemasa (also known as Masayuki Fujiwara) lived during the Kamakura period (1185–1333). The man was Japan’s first recorded hairdresser. He started cutting and styling people’s hair as his livelihood. He soon got famous for his skill. He got so famous that he soon became a revered figure. In fact, salons across Japan used to be shut in honour of his death anniversary. Centuries later, the man is worshipped as the kami (spirit) of hair. How to worship

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The rituals are unique. Devotees here do not tie a wish thread around a tree or throw coins into a fountain. Instead, they get a prayer envelope and the temple priest cuts a small strand of their hair which is locked in a special envelope with prayers for hair health and growth. Then the envelope is offered at the shrine, where the spirits are asked to look kindly upon your tresses. The unique hair offering

But that’s not it. There’s a mound of hair which has hair offerings over time, and it’s believed that this ever-growing collection gathers spiritual energy for hair health. Local barbers, beauty professionals, and students taking national cosmetology also visit here to seek blessing of the man. Mikami has wooden prayer plaques and charms shaped like combs, scissors, and other hair-related icons. People write their wishes for hair growth, silky and pretty long strands. The shrine also offers mail-order charms for those who can’t make the trip themselves. So the next time you plan a trip to Kyoto make sure to add Mikami to the itinerary.