Someone throw in a new camera with those TIGI Foxy Curls… It’s hard to show off all that Japan has to offer when your camera can’t take action shots.

Anyway, one of the most important shrines in  Japan is the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. It was built and dedicated in 1920 for Emperer Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. Emperer Meiji is responsible for the “Enlightened Age” and opened Japan to Western trade and ideas. He cut off his top knot, wore Western clothing, ate Western food and drank wine with dinner. He ruled from 1868 to 1912. The shrine sits in 170 acres of 100,000 donated trees from around the world. It’s a beautiful setting with something always going on- a wedding, a ceremony, a celebration….

The "torii" or gate leading in to shrine

This torii is built out of a cypress imported from Taiwan. All shinto shrines are marked with a torii entrance like this one.

Wine from France was given to Japan for the consecration of the shrine.

Upon entry on to the grounds, all must wash hands and rinse the mouth to purify.

There were two weddings going on. Notice the woman who has brought along a picture of a deceased family member. Maybe the bride’s father? A fairly typical Asian custom not to smile in formal pictures -also apparently for the men to be one side the women on the other.

Children often go in kimonos to the shrines. My camera does not capture the beautiful fabric with which the kimonos are made. I have always pictured them as nightgown material however they are a heavy, rich silk with vibrant color, intricate detail and complex patterns.

There was a baptism going on but the baby was crying so hard I felt intrusive taking a picture. Everyone on this side of the Eastern hemisphere could hear her. Reminded me a lot of Offspring #1’s baptism. The only way I know he got Baptized was because the priest doused him with Holy Water- I certainly never heard any of the mass.

People buy votive boards to hang in the shrine for wishes and good fortune depending on the time of year or the holiday.

The shrine capital of Japan is Kyoto which is on the Clampett agenda. Until then, all of you shrine enthusiasts will have to wait for your fix since I’m still focused on the little things in life like registering our bikes so we can actually ride them.