Though technically Hatsumode refers to the first shrine visit of the year, and of course there can only be one first, many people, myself included, take the opportunity to visit more than one.
The first place we went in Kyoto was Yoshida Shrine where there were no lines of people.
There are quite a few sub-shrines scattered around the hillside, all with offerings laid out in front of the honden.
Omota Sha is a shrine I have been wanting to visit for a long time, but is usually closed, it only opens a few days a year. It features a unique octagonal building.
Omoto Sha also features shrines for all of the provinces of Japan.
The sunny day caused the snow on the roofs to constantly melt and drip.
Nearby is Munetada Shrine, again not so many visitors.
Here we were given Omiki.
is it a white stone, below the orange? any specific meaning or background to this particular combination?
ReplyDeleteare oranges native to japan?
Thanks for the nice pics!
ReplyDeleteI think Kagami mochi are very beautiful, like sculptures!
And btw I wish you an HAPPY NEW YEAR
BONNE ET HEUREUSE ANNEE !!! :)
Hi Merodema
ReplyDeleteThe white objects are mochi, rice cakes, traditionally eaten at the new year. The oranges are a type we call satsuma in the west and are native to Japan.
Merci Lili..... and the same to you!
ReplyDeletethnks - I'd already wondered about their perfect shape & whiteness, for a stone that is, but then again, what I see in your pictures is perfectness all around...
ReplyDelete