Tokyo is argueably the largest city in the world, modern but filled with historical temples at every corner. The largest fish market in the world is in Tokyo, and is likely the fish market that ships out the fish you eat at home. The transportation system in Tokyo is world class and can get you pretty much anywhere in the city without a problem. The metro stations are easy to navigate as they include english signage to direct you.
When visiting Tokyo you have to see at least one temple or shrine. The neighborhood we stayed in had shrines down almost every street, some small and more run down and others large and beautifully built with gorgeous gardens. Shrines are part of the Shinto while Temples are Buddhist. The practice of clapping is done at the shrines while quiet prayer is done at temples.
While we were in Tokyo we went to visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Yoyogi park in the neighborhood of Shinjuku. This shrine is located in the park and it’s a quiet walk to the shrine, the path shrouded in tall trees brings welcome shade. At the shrine you can throw in some yen, bow and clap, and make a small prayer. Please note that at both temples and shrines it’s not proper to take photos of the actual inside of the buildings. There are signs in english to remind you but there were tons of tourists taking pictures anyway. I always try to respect the local customs and social norms when traveling. I think it’s a sign of respect, and with more and more places becoming overrun with tourists, I think this is more important than ever.
This shrine, although there were lots of visitors was peaceful and felt spiritual. All this despite being in a park in downtown Tokyo, skyscrapers surround the park, but the peace felt here transports you out of the city.
On another day we visited the Senso Ji Temple. This area was crazy busy as this is a very special and popular temple. Japanese flock here to pray for all kinds of occasions. There is a shopping street leading up to the temple, filled with shops selling souveniers and Japanese knives, foods and all kinds of other things. We didn’t really spend much time shopping though and just walked through the crowds to the temple. The gates leading to the temple are huge and impressive. The gates have burned down in multiple fires over the years and has always been rebuilt to look like the original.
Senso-ji Temple offers a wide variety of omamori (charms/amulets) and blessings for purchase, representing prayers for health, success, safety, and love. I bought one for blessings for my family, and brought it back home to frame and display.
At the main temple, you can stand quietly and observe the locals inside praying. You are welcome to say a quiet prayer of your own here. Walking around the ground there are statues of gods on display.
It’s really cool that these shrines and temples are blended into everyday life in the largest city in the world. Where old is mixed with new and modern. I always feel so small in this world when visiting old or ancient places. It helps remind me that my problems are so big and that millions of people have lived before me and will live after me.
- Love Becky
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