Shinto shrines and zen temples
A Shinto shrine or Jinja is the domain of one of the many nature gods (kami). The Fushimi Inari Shrine near Kyoto is dedicated to Inari,the god of rice. According to established rituals, the kami is honored by Shinto priests and priestesses, and by devout visitors. In a prayer or by writing a wish on a wooden picture one asks for happiness and prosperity. The surrounding nature is an integral part of the sacred temple complex, and the paths invite you to walk. Truly impressive is the Senbon Torii path,where you walk through a series of thousands of gateways that are brightly vermilion and painted black. On the way to the mountain top there are beautiful views over the landscape.
The atmosphere at a Buddhist temple complex is subdued. Monks lead ceremonies and meditation meetings, visitors can delve into the teachings of the Buddha. The Tenryuji temple is one of japan's most impressive temple complexes. Special events take place throughout the year, such as the festive Obon and the Toro-Nagashi: hundreds of paper lanterns – described with messages to the ancestors – are entrusted to the river, which slowly carries them into the night darkness. If you travel to Japan in August, you can witness this fairytale ritual.
