Aside of the homestay, visiting the Meiji Jingu shrine must have been my favourite part of the trip. Maybe that’s because I’m fascinated by Shinto mythology. Who knows? But it was great.
The spirits enshrined there are the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. There were a lot of people visiting at the time our group went but I am told it is usually even busier.
The shrine grounds are enormous and although the architecture is grandiose and can make you feel very humble at times, it is not imposing in an uncomfortable way. There is something very comforting and refreshing about walking through big torii gates.
By walking around the shrine grounds, I got to do a lot of things like see lots of people in beautiful kimono, draw a prophetic poem written by Empress Shoken, buy talisman… A couple was even getting married so our group saw them as they walked by during their wedding procession. I didn’t pray at the shrine (because I didn’t have much what to pray for), but I did write a wish down.
Overall, the shrine was bustling with activity but the atmosphere was so grandiose and solemn at times… I loved it. My only regret is in not being there longer.
Once Upon A Bridge 