Hikawa Jinja Shrine 2 (calcareous breccia)

To the west just 50 meters from the main building of this shrine, there still remains a small pond called "Snake Pond", though it looks artificial now. Your are prohibited to go into the water. In ancient days, there were lots of swamps in this area. People might perform seasonal rituals praying for  good fishing here.

 Green leopard plants open vivid yellow flowers under the winter sunshine.

 You may have seen this straw mat bound on a pine tree. Insects dislike coldness and come under it during the winter. If not, they will make a hole and damage the tree.

Gardeners will take off this before the coming spring. 

 This is another stage for ritual dancing.

A lion sculpture on a pole looks humorous.

 STONES GATHER ROUND AND BECOME A BIG ROCK AFTER SPENDING LONG TIME ?
Rains become calcic water through small lime stones and the water can glue stones together. The long repetition of this process makes a big rock. Ancient people believed small stones came together and changed into a rock.

I wish you a Happy New Year !

Hikawa Jinja Shrine

 This shrine is located near Tokyo. The approach is quite long and tall big trees are planted on the both sides. 

 The main gate is painted red, a divine color.  

 This building is the hall of worship. People clap their hands twice and pray their happiness.

 This building is called "kagura den" where sacred music and dancing are dedicated. The day I visit was the gala day for boys of three and five and girls of three and seven. Parents pray their children's health and happiness.

 All sides are decorated with three patterns, three swirls, a circle and U shaped one. They might have important meanings.  

 Hikawa Jinja has many small shrines. I love this simplicity.

You will see many giant trees in the precincts of shrines in this country. I love this atmosphere.