Shikobuchi is the guardian deity of raft riders and is unique to the area between Onyudani and Kuta. In ancient times, this area prospered as a "soma" (wood producing region), supplying building timbers to the capitals of Nara and Kyoto. The cut timber was carried on rafts to the capital via the Azumi River, Lake Biwa, and the Kizu River. Rafting was a dangerous occupation, which is thought to have given rise to the unique Shikobuchi faith.