shinto shrine
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Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine: History and Learning in Fukuoka
Near Fukuoka city, Japan, stands the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. More than just a spiritual haven, it’s a tapestry woven with threads of history, art, and academic aspiration – a place where scholarly spirit meets serene landscapes. Legend and History of Dazaifu Tenmangu The story of Dazaifu Tenmangu begins in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) with…
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Miyajidake Shrine: Fukuoka’s Sunset Boulevard
Northwest of the Japanese city of Fukuoka lies one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrines – so iconic you may have seen famous pictures of it! If you have seen a picture of the sunset down a large boulevard with a bay in the background and a torii gate in the midground, that is probably…
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Munakata Shrine: Discover the Mystical Charm of Hetsumiya
Immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture, Munakata Taisha (or Munakata Shrine) beckons visitors with its spiritual allure and fascinating traditions. It is also known affectionately by the locals as Munataka Jinja. Known for its trio of shrines dispersed across three islands, our journey centres on the main shrine in Munataka Shrine,…
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Hirano Jinja: A Blossoming Cherry Blossom Sanctuary in Kyoto
Kyoto is a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful shrines and temples. One such shrine that deserves a visit is the Hirano Jinja, located in the northwest part of the city. Hirano Jinja’s draw is its beautiful gardens, which are especially stunning in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full…
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Itsukushima Jinja: Miyajima’s Iconic Shrine and Floating Torii Gate
Nestled on the shores of the tranquil Seto Inland Sea in Japan, Miyajima Island is home to one of the country’s most iconic and breathtaking shrines: Itsukushima Jinja. Also known as the “floating shrine,” Itsukushima Jinja is built entirely on stilts over the water. During high tide, the water makes seem as though it’s floating.…
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Ise Grand Shrine: Japanese Imperial Divinity
Ise Grand Shrine in the city of Ise in Mie Prefecture, Japan, is one of the most sacred shrines in Japan. Located (by train) about 2 hours south of Nagoya, it also has a close relationship with the Japanese imperial family. The shrine complex has two main shrines, the Inner Shrine (Naiku) and the Outer…
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Kagura – How to see Japanese Intangible Folk Cultural Properties
This weekend I had the opportunity to see one of Japan’s Intangible Folk Cultural Properties: the Buzen Kagura. This weekend, there was a day of festivities and demonstrations north of Fukuoka at Munakata Shrine, featuring local cultural activities. What is Kagura? “Kagura” refers to a specific form of traditional Japanese dance-drama, performed as part of…
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Hatsumode (初詣) – Visiting a Shinto Shrine for New Year
Have you ever heard of Hatsumode? It’s a traditional Japanese practice that happens during the New Year. During this time, people visit shrines and temples to pray for good luck and fortune in the coming year. It’s similar to making New Year’s resolutions but in a more spiritual way. During Hatsumode, people generally offer prayers,…
