YASHIKIGAMI

House kami, and the name of the miniature shrine in which the kami resides. The shrine is kept in an auspicious location in the grounds or courtyard of a large rural house, in contrast tokamidanawhich are far more commonly found and are normally inside. The yashikigami is closely identified with ancestors of the household and spirit of the land. Daily offerings (shinsen) may be made to the yashikigami. Like thechinju no kamiit may come to be regarded as anujigami, especially where only the largest house in a village has a yashikigami. In some villages it is the custom to have a yashikigami in each house.