Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
28 mm ISO 100 for 1/100 sec. at ƒ/10
Rainmaker's Tale: The Legend of Tanuki Shrine's Golden Dragon
Location: Lake Tanuki, Shizuoka, Japan
Timestamp: 08:44・2024/02/28
Nestled along the northern banks of Lake Tanuki lies Choja-Yama-Danuki Shrine, also more commonly known as Tanuki Shrine, a sanctuary steeped in local lore.
Though the primary deity of the shrine remains a mystery, local legends hint at its origins, suggesting it was erected to venerate mythical beings associated with rain-bringing rituals.
Among these tales is the saga of Choja, a prosperous farmer of the Yoshino Clan, and his barren wife. Despite their bountiful lands, the couple longed for a child. Their fervent prayers were eventually answered with the birth of a daughter, Tamaki.
On Tamaki's 18th year, a relentless drought descended upon the region, casting a pall of despair over the land. Tormented by concern for her loved ones and neighbors, Tamaki succumbed to illness. In her anguish, she implored her parents to accompany her on a pilgrimage to the pond nestled at the foot of Shiraito Falls.
Standing at the water's edge, Tamaki surrendered herself to the depths, a sacrificial plea for rain. Miraculously, storm clouds gathered, and torrents of rain descended, breaking the arid spell.
From the shimmering waters emerged a majestic golden dragon, proclaiming itself as the pond's divine guardian. It revealed that it had assumed human form as Tamaki to dwell among mortals, and expressed gratitude to the elderly couple for their kindness.
With gratitude, the dragon bid farewell, returning to its aquatic realm. Upon returning home, the elderly couple discovered three glistening scales of gold on Tamaki’s bed, tokens of the dragon's gratitude.
Thus, Choja Pond was christened, its waters believed to possess the power to end droughts when beseeched with earnest prayers—a testament to the enduring bond between humanity and the mystical realm.
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