KASHIHARA, Nara Pref. -- A three-footed crow may seem a mysterious idea to say the least, or downright weird to be more blunt.

But as a prelude to the World Cup soccer finals cohosted by Japan and South Korea, items bearing images of the legendary crow, "yatagarasu," are proving unexpectedly popular at a shrine dedicated to Emperor Jinmu, described as the first emperor in the "Kojiki," Japan's oldest existing chronicle.

In a rare move for such a traditional institution, Kashihara Jingu Shrine began this month selling "omamori" good luck charms and "ema" votive plaques bearing the emblem of the Japan Football Association, which uses the yatagarasu as its official symbol.