The Meiji Shrine
Tokyo, Japan
July 2001
The Tori Gate over the path to the Shrine is made of Japanese Cypress and is said to be over 1700 years old. The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. This shrine was completed by over 100,000 volunteers in 1920, but was destroyed in an air raid in 1945. It was rebuilt in 1958.
A gold screen in an outer building.
A bronze door plate on the door to the inner shrine.
A Taiko drum just inside the inner shrine.
Shrines & Temples
Kamakura, Japan
September 2001
The Daibutsu (Amita Buddha) of Kamakura was cast in 1252 A.D. In 1498, a tidal wave swept away the temple that housed the Buddha. Since then, it has been open to the elements. The statue is 13.35 meters tall and weighs 121 tons.
The Kamakuragu Shrine was built in 1869 to preserve Prince Morinaga’s memory. In 1334, he was captured and imprisoned by the samurai of Kamakura. He was held in a cave/dungeon for nine months before he was killed. Morinaga is now seen as a symbol of bravery in Japan. This picture was taken from the mouth of the cave.
Zuisenji Temple: This bell sits in the original Zen rock garden, created by Muso-Kokushi in 1327.
Tokeiji Temple: Famous for being a nunnery where women who wanted to escape a bad marriage could find sanctuary.
Jochiji Temple: One of the many small statues of Buddha in this temple.
Engakuji Temple: This is the main gate, rebuilt in 1783. Statues of holy persons are enshrined in its towers. This is the temple where Buddha’s tooth is said to be enshrined.
Also at Engakuji Temple.
