Atsuta Shrine: The Main Shrine

This is back at the pond with all the turtles and Koi fish.

I thought this couple taking a break on the bench was very cute. I think this is one of the nicer places to stop and relax at.

The 1,300 year old tree!

It is enormous and protected by special prayers to continue its life. Can you imagine the different things this tree may have been around for?

If only trees could talk....

I think this woman worked here and part of the ritual is to bow as a greeting to the work day......or I'm making stuff up out of thin air which would mean I am completely wrong. If someone knows the right answer please fill me in! I just saw this woman wearing a sash and hanging around the inside after she bowed.

This is the most popular place for people to come, bow their heads and say a prayer.

I wonder what people pray most for.....

Even from far away you understand just how big the 1,300 year old tree is.

There's always this gap on the side of the Torii gates, but very rarely do you see people walking around the gate. The majority of people walk under the gate.

Atsuta Shrine: At Jingumae Station

 As I mentioned in my previous post, the trees here are beautiful! I couldn't stop looking up! After walking around all day in the heat it was a pleasant way to end my walk.

 Would you believe this is all in the middle of a city? You can't even hear any of the traffic noise in here.

 This is me being covert and taking a photo of the man who works at the Shrine. I didn't have enough guts to go up to him and ask if I could take his photo......but maybe you will!

 This man stole my idea!

Just kidding! I know everybody does this, who could resist!

 

 I found the pond that is pretty much a haven for turtles...and Koi apparently, but it's difficult to see them unless they are bright orange.

 Like this guy.

I think he wanted his picture taken....so I obliged.

 A bridge that you can't cross over....only look at.

I don't know why, but I liked the fact that there was only one pigeon sitting on the Torii gate. You'd think there would be more.

Okay, I know I promised roosters, but you will have to wait until my next post to see them. But, I promise I have them!!

Walking Course #1: My Goal! (Atsuta Shrine)

 Welcome to Atsuta Shrine!

Home of the Thousand (at least) year old tree and.....some roosters?

 It was so quiet at this shrine. Maybe it had something to do with it being the middle of the day on a Friday and not a holiday.

 To cleanse your hands before praying.

 The trees here are amazing! They intertwine with each other to make almost a complete blanket over the area.

 I've seen these strings of cranes at a couple places. It takes a lot of time to fold all these cranes (supposedly a thousand) to have your prayers answered.

 All visitors are welcome to buy a plaque and leave it here. There are other charms that you can buy. There are ones to protect your health, wealth, business, etc.

A woman in prayer after tossing a coin to the gods in the money box.