Look at the picture above. It shows the classic arrangement of structures in a Zen monastery, with lotus pond, ceremonial gate and Teaching Hall (Hatto) perfectly aligned on a central axis which runs from south to north. Through the middle … Read the rest
Category: Japanese culture (Page 10 of 19)
There’s been a notable upturn in Halloween decorations this year in Japan, and I have the impression the festival is about to be celebrated with more gusto here than in the West. Green Shinto has written before of the way … Read the rest
As someone distressed by the appalling treatment of animals by human beings (factory farming being the most egregious example), it saddens me that modern Shinto shows so little interest in the subject. Animal guardians serve the kami, and horses act … Read the rest
A reminder that tomorrow (Mon 28th) will be the harvest full moon, traditionally celebrated by the Japanese as the most beautiful of the year. There are lots of moon viewing parties, which in the past consisted of poetry making while … Read the rest
Green Shinto friend Amy Chavez has written an article for Rocket News in which she lists 17 positive things about Japan. Here’s her listing…
1) Returning favours
2) Thanking people
3) Politeness
4) Putting others first
5) Including everyone … Read the rest
One of the great appeals of Shinto is the attractiveness of the aesthetics involved. These extend to the architecture, the clothing, the religious tools, the rituals, the offerings, even the festivals. And along with these are the performances of dance … Read the rest
The first place I turned to in an attempt to get to the bottom of the Oiwa mystery was Fushimi Inari Shrine, since the Inari connection seemed so strong. However, one of the shrine staff assured us by telephone that … Read the rest