Smoke on the Water
Today we visited Sensoji Temple.
It is in the heart of the Asakusa area of Tokyo. It has a touristy feel to it, but is in fact a real temple where people come to pray. It is surrounded by food hawkers and souvenir shops.
As you enter you see the Gods of Thunder and Wind guarding the entrance.
Once inside you wash your hands in the fountain to purify yourself for the deity housed in the temple–in this case Kannon, godess of mercy. Supposedly this statue (which you are not able to see because she is enclosed in three separate boxes or rooms to keep her safe) was rescued by two fishermen from the sea.
As you near the actual temple you come across a huge roofed vat filled with burning incense. The smoke is said to have healing powers and it is customary to rub the smoke over your body paying special attention to areas of pain or confusion.
Once inside the temple you can shake the special can of joss sticks until one falls out. The symbol on the stick corresponds with one of at least 100 drawers. You open the appropriate drawer and pull out your fortune. Then you think about what it is you want and tie it to a special rack. It is also advised you leave an offering of money to ensure your fortune.
It was quite an experience!
Pat said,
August 4, 2005 @ 11:54 am
We continue to enjoy your pictures and adventures. I have noticed that your posting are done really early in the morning (like at 6:17 a.m.) Are you not sleeping or do your days start really early? Are you and Steve enjoying the tour that was set up for you? By now I assume that you are in Matsumoto. All continues to go well here, but Nicholas is still sick with a high fever that leaves him totally listless.(reminisent of Florida)
Love ya