Shinto Ceremony Plus

Last night when we were out walking with the Goths, we passed the shrine that is in our neighborhood. Elder Goth wanted to go inside so we slipped off our shoes and went in. A kind woman greeted us and since Elder Goth speaks Japanese, he understood her and was able to talk to her. He told her that we are neighbors and that we represent a church. She invited us to come the next morning to a special ceremony that they were having. It was so interesting! Everyone had on these black robes and were kneeling down. There were people playing instruments such as a kind of flute and a gong. At certain times, men would go up a level and bow. Then another level and bow. The others would clap about 4 times at certain intervals. Then they would come down and others would repeat it. Finally, they put on face masks and went out and brought in huge trays of vegetables, a watermelon, eggs, etc. They were ceremoniously placed on the alter. It was all done with a great sense of reverence. Then someone chanted a prayer. I think they were giving thanks for the products of the earth as the Shinto religion is one of worshiping nature. The woment were off to one side. They probably prepared all the items for the alter.

I thought it was so fascinating to be able to view this so close up! I love the way they tie on the obis (backpack type things). There were a couple of babies toddling around and they were so cute.

This is blurry but maybe you can see the vegetables, eggs, and watermelon that are so carefully placed on the alters.

I really felt privileged to be able to be invited to see this. They were all so welcoming and kept bowing to us. We could learn a lot from these wonderful people.

And later we went on a walk again. Here is one showing a mom and her little girl crossing the overpass that goes across the main street. (How do I get pictures of people? I use the telephoto lens and just pretend I am taking a picture of something else!)

This is a used kimono shop - plus other used items are for sale. I want some of those dolls!

Hey, want to go on 50 first dates? Must be a dating service.

They have English menus at this restaurant.

Couldn't resist - are they so cute!

This is a modeling agency for foreign children.

Tonight we are going to be at the temple. Dad has been asked to be the officiator. It is amazing that we can be there in less than 5 minutes!