Shrines?!!

Hey guys I'm here to talk about the shrines of Japan. Shinto shrines were to made in ancient Japan to house kami (Gods) or sacred objects linked to kami. These shrines would then become a place of worship for the Japanese, however since the advent of the 21st Century these places are now more like tourist attractions where people go to receive fortunes and charms during birthdays or the new year. So I'm here to show you three of the most spectacular shrines to visit during your travels so without further ado let's get started.

SHITENNOJI TEMPLE

Shitennoji Temple

First up is Shitennoji temple in Osaka. This temple is an awesome place to go with breathtaking views and a stunning treasure house. An outer courtyard with a beautiful view eventually leads to the pagoda (tower on the left). There is also the main hall where Prince Shotoku founder of the temple is enshrined as a statue of Kannon. In addition, this place has a treasure house with spectacular artworks and pieces from the time with many exhibitions throughout the year makes it a must-visit during your travels in Osaka.

SENSOJI TEMPLE

Sensoji Temple

Secondly is the Sensoji Temple, located in Tokyo and is the oldest temple in Tokyo being built in 645. The outer gate 'Kaminarimon' or the thunder gate leads into the temple where people can walk along the shopping street 'Nakamise' to buy a yukata or traditional Japanese souvenirs. The best time to go would be during the Sanja Matsuri, a festival in honor of one of the three founders of the temple where food stalls, festivals and parades are available to receive a blast of Japanese culture and grab some souvenirs along the way.


HOKKAIDO JINGU

Hokkaido Jingu

Last but definitely not the least is Hokkaido's own shrine the Hokkaido Jingu. The Hokkaido Jingu is a shrine that displays natural aesthetics at their finest with the photo showing the beauty of the shrine in winter but in spring, the 1400 sakura (cherry blossom) and 250 ume (plum blossom) flourish bringing forth vibrant colours with a soft and relaxing atmosphere. The shrine was founded in 1869 by the Meiji Emperor who decided to enshrine three kami for the pioneers at the time and in 1964 the emperor was also enshrined now housing four kami. The Hokkaido Jingu is popular during times of weddings, exorcisms, spring, and New Years where people gather to meet, talk, and also to receive blessings and good luck charms from the deities where people can get goshuin stamps and stamp cards to commemorate their visit.

Overall a visit to the shrines during your journey to Japan to experience not only the beauty of the Japanese landscape but also to understand more about their history and culture and most importantly to grab those good luck charms for the rest of your stay in Japan.

Till Next Time.

By Kris Ioane.