Meiji Shrine (Tokyo, Japan)

On 2007, June 1, the Members of Kanagawa International Association's Minami Circle made a trip to visit the Meiji Shrine inTokyo.



This is the entrance (gate) to the Shrine. This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his wife, the Empress Shoken. Both are enshrined here.



These are the lanterns which are along the path to the Shrine. They are along the path from the gate to the shrine.

Note: I think there are some things in Japan are so beautiful and unique in design.



This is the wall that surrounds the Shrine.



This is the first entrance to the Shrine. The original buildings were dedicated in 1914. However, some buildings were destoyed during World War II. In October 1958, the reconstructed buildings which were destroyed were completed.



This is the main building. This is the prayer and meeting area of the Shrine. Shinto shrines are a place for worship. These celebrate festivals.

In the Shinto faith, there is no absolute right and wrong. They believe that nobody is perfect. The rituals which are performed are done so to keep the evil spirits away through purification, prayers, and offerings.



Another inner entrance to the Shrine. During the Meiji Period in Japanese history, the Shinto religion was made Japan's state religion. After World War II, the Shinto religion and state were separated.

Shinto priests perform many rituals and live on the grounds of the Shrine. The are many different types of rituals which are performed daily. Men and women can become priests. They can marry and have children.



The outer entrance to the Shrine. The wall that you see to the left and right of the gate is shown above.

One of the most important features of Shinto art is the architecture of the Shinto Shrine. Each building is unique and houses many ancient forms of art which include the No theater, calligraphy, and court music (which includes ancient dance music).



These are barrels of sake which are presented to the Shrine.



A closer view of the main gate to the Shrine. The name for gate in Japanese is torii.

What amazes me is that these gates are so tall and massive. I am always impressed with the height of a Japanese man when these were made. They were amazing engineers to erect such tall heavy structures that are made of solid wood.


more later...