Kamiyo Ame is a yuzu-flavored candy that has been sold at Konpirasan, a Shinto shrine formally known as Kotohira-gu located in Kagawa Prefecture, for over 700 years. “Kamiyo” candy means that it brings you good luck on behalf of God. The beautiful glimmering golden color of the candies representing the Kotohira-gu shrine pleases those who hold the candies in their hands. Kamiyo candies were sold by the five families known as “Gonin Byakusho (Five Farmers)” who have served the shrine since ancient times as the first souvenir to introduce the shrine to a wider audience. Up to the present day, Gonin Byakusho are the only vendors permitted to sell Kamiyo Ame candies within the Kotohira-gu shrine premises. The five families are still responsible for the Shinto rituals of the shrine while committed to produce the candies following the tradition and thoughts that have been passed down through generations over long periods of time. Often regarded as the shrine you should visit once in your lifetime, Konpirasan has been a popular pilgrimage from long ago despite being one of the most difficult Shinto shrines in the country to reach on foot with the main building standing at the end of 785 steps. Because it is difficult to climb for those having weak legs, it is believed that their family who worship at the shrine instead can share the good fortune together by bringing back Kamiyo Ame candies and breaking them into small pieces with a hammer to share. The tradition also conveys Japan’s culture of sharing your gains or benefits with others known as “osusowake,” as well as one’s wish for the health of families and friends.