Tourists are now banned from visiting Watatsumi Shrine following an incident on March 22.

The details of what transpired have not been revealed, but it is being called 'a grave and unforgivable act of disrespect.'

After sustaining damage following a typhoon, the shrine was restored through a successful crowdfunding campaign, thanks in part to the popularity of Ghost of Tsushima.

Ghost of Tsushima’s success has also inspired some gamers to visit modern-day Japan to see the sights recreated in the game and even inspired some real-life charity efforts to benefit the country.

Back in 2021, crowdfunders managed to raise enough money to help restore the Watatsumi Shrine on Tsushima Island after it was damaged in a typhoon.

While the sacred shrine wasn’t featured in Ghost of Tsushima, the game’s popularity was a major factor in building support for the restoration efforts, which managed to raise over 500% of its original target goal.

Unfortunately, not everyone who has come to visit the restored Watatsumi Shrine has had respectful intentions, and now its caretakers have banned all non-worshipping visitors from the grounds

It’s a shame that measures like this need to be taken to protect a shrine of such spiritual and historical value to the people of Japan, especially after so many recent video games have sparked an interest in the country and its landmarks.

Source - Gamerant 

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