Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, Japan

Kifune Shrine, nestled in a Kyoto gorge, is a highly respected shrine dedicated to the water god. The shrine is famous for its lantern-lined stairway and autumn beauty, holding significant historical and folkloric importance. It's considered the birthplace of ema prayer boards, originally used to pray for rain instead of wishing. The shrine is linked to the medieval play "Kanawa," portraying a woman transforming into a demoness seeking revenge. This association led to the shrine's connection with the Ushi-no-toki-mairi curse ritual, popular with those intending to curse others. Initially, the Hour of the Ox ritual was for general wish-making, inspired by the god's manifestation. A small sub-shrine honors the talkative Ushioni ("ox demon") who originally accompanied the god but was then exiled. The Ushioni's descendants took monstrous forms for generations but eventually became human. The Zetsu ("tongue") family, descendants of the Ushioni, have survived and serve as priests at the shrine.