Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine Entrance

City Wilderness

While riding the commuter train east towards Tokyo, I was avidly watching the surrounding landscape, rather than fingering my cell phone or PSP like so many of the natives around. It was a cool clear day, blue sky, temperature around 50F. After the second stop, a seat cleared out and I was able to sit for the remainer of our ride. While looking towards the south west, I noticed a snow-capped giant on the horizon, Mt. Fugi!! After about 20 minutes we ended up being delayed on the tracks because of some accident ahead. Following the recommendation of the conductor, we transferred to another train at the next station. After another 10 minutes we arrived at our destintion, Harajuku. The Meiji shrine is the largest shrine in Tokyo, devoted to the first emperor of Japan after Tokyo became the capital. Amazingly after a 5 minute walk the concrete jungle was transformed into a wilderness of very old trees perhaps 50 to 100 feet tall.
I performed the required hand and mouth cleansing with blessed water and approached the sacred shrine.

Cleansing

Shrine Gate

No photography was allowed inside the shrine, but it reminded me of an old Bruce Lee movie where 100's of ninjas practised their kung fu. Bow twice, clap twice and bow once before prayer will ensure your prayers are answered.

Pray for a Good Trip

Praying with a clean spirit and clear mind is advised. I was surprised how many native Japanese appeared next to me while i was bowing. It seems many peopleb will come to this place when they have an important issue for prayer. We left the sacred grounds feeling happy, clean, and blessed.

Location : Japan,