丑の時参り · urban · Kyoto

Ushi-no-Toki-Mairi

Ushi-no-Toki-Mairi is a ritualistic practice wherein a person would visit a shrine at the 'Cow Hour' (between 1 and 3 a.m.) to cast curses or wishes, often to invoke the ire of the spirit Hashihime. This practice highlights the intersections of folklore, magic, and societal beliefs about retribution in medieval Japan.

Legend

Originally a secretive practice used to exact revenge or fulfill desires, the ritual's ominous nature stems from Hashihime’s legend. Visitors aimed to awaken her spirit, invoking her curses upon their enemies, showcasing the societal fear of the vengeful and unseen.