What is "setsumatsusha"

and , also called (collectively known as ) are small or miniature shrines entrusted to the care of a larger shrine, generally due to some deep connection with the enshrined kami.

The two terms used to have legally different meanings, but are today synonyms. Setsumatsusha can lie either or the main shrine's premises. Setsumatsusha are usually 1x1 ken in size. They can however be as small as beehives or relatively large and have 1x2, 1x3 or even, in one case, 1x7 bays.