In commemoration of the Year of the Dragon, a campaign has begun to visit temples and shrines around Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three most scenic views, where many legends related to dragons remain, in hopes of good luck. This is the second part of the ''Wishing Ball'' experience where you make a wish on a 5cm diameter wooden ball and peek into your crotch. This time, after offering the ball, you will receive a souvenir ball, and you can also receive discounts at nearby restaurants and souvenirs.
It was planned by the Miyazu City Tourism Strategy Promotion Team, made up of Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Amanohashidate Tourism Association, and others, with the cooperation of the Jalan Research Center (Tokyo), which researches tourist destinations.
The ''Wishing Ball'', which began in January 2023, had people visiting Seisoji Temple, Kago Shrine (Ogaki), and Chionji Temple (Monju) using the colored strings tied to the ball. According to a survey by the Jalan Research Center, 200 to 300 units are sold per month, and more than 70% of those who tried it said they ''stayed longer.''
On the other hand, there have been cases where some people have taken the balls home, which does not lead to a tour, so this time we decided to use a smaller 3.3 centimeter diameter ''Kanaidama'' as a souvenir. A set with a wish ball costs 1,500 yen. If you present the instruction manual you receive at the time of purchase at 15 restaurants and souvenir shops near temples and shrines, you can receive a 5% discount.
The period is until March 24th. A 33-year-old Recruit Kansai group manager who runs the Jalan Research Center said, ''We want to foster an image of the area as a place where people can receive divine blessings, and not just peeping at their thighs.''
