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Holy shrines in Japan

Shinto is the basic religion of Japan. Their gods are represented by objects such as rivers, sun, trees, rocks, etc. and even some deceased humans are considered Kami. Shinto shrines are sacred places where Kami, the Shinto gods, reside. Kami is represented by a sacred object that is not on public view and is only brought out once a year during a festival for display. The shrines are frequently visited by devotees who pray and pay homage to their gods and seek their blessings. People visit the shrines on special occasions in their lives and festivals. The Torii, a symbolic gate marks the entrance to the shrine and is an important architectural aspect of the shrines.

The Meiji Shrine is located in Tokyo and is dedicated to Empress Meiji and her wife, Empress Shoken. During Emperor Meiji’s rule, Japan prospered and joined the ranks of powerful nations. The Emperor passed away in 1912 and a shrine was built in her honor in 1920. The shrine was damaged during World War II and was rebuilt again.

Sumiyoshi Taisha is the most important and perhaps the oldest shrine in Japan. The foundations of the shrine were laid in the 3rd century and it has the typical architecture of Japanese shrines. Sumiyoshi shrines are mainly located near ports for the protection of fishermen, travelers, and sailors.

Another famous Shinto shrine in Japan is the Fuji Sengen Jinja. It stands at the base of Mount Fiji and is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime. The sanctuary was originally built in 788 and was rebuilt in the 17th century. The shrine is located in a thick forest in the city of Fujiyoshida. A tree-lined passage with stone lanterns leads to the sanctuary. There is a 18m high wooden torii gate. The highlights of the shrine are three sacred trees known as Goshinboku. They are at least a thousand years old and are known to protect the sanctuary.

Ise Grand Shrine is located in the city of Ise and is perhaps the holiest shrine in Japan. It is actually made up of two shrines, the outer Geku shrine; Built in the 5th century, this shrine is dedicated to Toyouke, the Kami of shelter, food, and clothing. While the inner Naiku shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. It was built in the 3rd century. The two shrines are simple but extremely impressive and are rebuilt every twenty years in accordance with Shinto traditions.

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