Hidden in the peaceful wooded groves of Nagoya's venerable Atsuta Jingu, the Meganenohi monument offers a delightfully surreal surprise for observant wanderers. Erected in 1982 by the Nagoya Association of Optical Industry, the statue replicates an ancient Shakōki-dogū clay figurine whose bug-eyed visage famously resembles snow goggles. While the surrounding complex is famed for sheltering one of Japan's sacred Imperial Regalia, this eccentric tribute celebrates the optical trade and modern eyewear. It makes for a charming, offbeat discovery to seek out while exploring one of the country's most historic Shinto shrines.
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