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This small hide-and-seek shrine in Setagaya in Tokyo is a so-called hokora (祠), a miniature Shinto shrine that is dedicated to minor kami not under the jurisdiction of any large shrine. This one doesn't even have its own name, as far as I can ascertain, though it's beautifully maintained. It's in a tree-lined street that happens to have a very good bakery and ice cream shop.
Back to the little shrine itself. I wonder who lives here. I like to think it's a dōsojin (道祖神 or road ancestor deity), protector of travellers, pilgrims and villages. I could be very wrong, but...that's what I imagine.
Sweet nymph of my garden
your locks dripping in scented oils
ardent protector of Athena’s sacred tree
what I take today will be offered again
Perfumed leaves to be burnt in fumigation
and young limbs twined, wreathed as one
We share in the garden in which you dwell
and I humbly accept your abundant gifts
The piety of the Hong Kong Chinese is illustrated by the richly decorated temples such as this one in Kowloon (below) and also in the intimate and well-concealed shrines (above).
Watch the American Climate Leadership Awards 2024 now: https://youtu.be/bWiW4Rp8vF0?feature=shared
The American Climate Leadership Awards 2024 broadcast recording is now available on ecoAmerica's YouTube channel for viewers to be inspired by active climate leaders. Watch to find out which finalist received the $50,000 grand prize! Hosted by Vanessa Hauc and featuring Bill McKibben and Katharine Hayhoe!
Takagi Shrine in Oshiage, Tokyo. Firstly, it's purple instead of the usual red. Secondly, onigiri (rice balls) everywhere, thanks to a pun. The shrine is dedicated to musubi, a Shinto concept that refers to creation and the link between all living things. However, omusubi happens to be another word for onigiri, and that's how you end up with a lovely quirky shrine.