The Watarai family has a long and distinguished surname that originated from the priest family of the Geku (Outer Shrine) of Ise Grand Shrine. It dates back to the mythological era, when Owakako, a descendant of Amahiwake no Mikoto, was appointed as the Ise Kuni no Miyatsuko during the reign of Emperor Suinin and also served as the chief priest of the Geku (Outer Shrine). This position has been passed down for generations, and the family has grown into one deeply involved in the religious ceremonies and management of Ise Grand Shrine.
It is said that the name was given to mean "crossing the sacred river (Isuzu River) to meet God," and it is believed that they adopted this surname because they were based in Watarai County, Ise Province (present-day Watarai County, Mie Prefecture).
This family lineage later split into four, with the second and fourth families prospering in particular. The second family produced branches such as the Matsuki and Kushimoto families, and after the Meiji Restoration, the Matsuki family, the head of the priest family, was even awarded the title of baron.
Watarai = Watarai
"Watarai" is a family name that is pronounced "Watarai". It is said that about 800 people in Japan have this family name. It originated in Mie Prefecture, and is currently found mainly in the Tokai region, including Gifu Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture.
What is “knowing unusual surnames”?
It is said that there are approximately 30 Japanese surnames, including different readings. We will introduce some of the most unusual surnames, their pronunciations and origins, as well as areas where they still exist in large numbers.
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