Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki City, Japan contains a myriad phallic statues adorned with prayer boards written by followers whose fears about fornication give them the willies. Like most Shinto shrines, it serves multiple purposes. The shrine is said to answer the prayers of those seeking lots of offspring and of those seeking to avoid venereal diseases. Recently, it's been said to ward off AIDS and ensure the success of sex change operations.

Petitioners visit the shrine to pray for success in their endeavor. They write a petition to the deity on a consecrated piece of wood, including their name, city of residence and the blessing desired. They then hang their petition in a public place in the shrine.

from The Mainichi Daily News (Tokyo)