I want to share one of the coolest shrines I’ve ever visited.
岩国白蛇神社 Shirohebi Shrine (Iwakuni)
As you might have realized from the name, this place enshrines white snakes. The most unique thing about it is that the snakes are actually at the shrine (still?). They have been breed for generations upon generations. Some are kept outside in a large, natural enclosure.
And others inside in a humid room to encourage mating.
The snakes are very well cared for and the priests save the sheds of the skins and use them in various art pieces.
寺
Produced in snake shed and reproduced in the phamplet for the shrine in embossed form.
Bell charm from Shirohebi Shrine