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Management and Environmental Stewardship

管理・環境整備

Unlike shrines or temples operated by formal religious institutions, the care and upkeep of Shirataki-san is handled by local volunteers through a group called the Shirataki Daimyōjin Support Association, affectionately known as the “Donguri Hut Club”.

The origins of the Shirataki Daimyōjin Support Association go back to the Meiji era. Even before that time, villagers had already been maintaining the area with basic cleaning and care. From around that period onward, efforts began to improve accessibility for the general public—such as building walking paths and adding signs to guide visitors.

Just like the gentle form of faith that surrounds Shirataki-san itself, the Support Association isn’t a rigid organization. It functions more like a friendly neighborhood group. It’s not uncommon to see local grandmothers chatting with visitors who’ve come to worship—sometimes forming spontaneous “temporary” support clubs right on the spot.

In recent years, in addition to ongoing maintenance and cleanup, the group has also taken on broader activities:
– Welcoming TV and newspaper crews for media coverage
– Operating the “Donguri Hut”, a renovated traditional house
– And managing this website you’re visiting now.