Japan Trip - Shrines in Tokyo

Atago Shrine is dedicated for the Deity of fire.
This Shrine was founded in 1603 to protect the city from fire.
It's near the Kamiyacho station.

You have to climb up this stairs to reach the Shrine.

It's said that you will have successful career if you climb up this stairs.
Going down this stairs was more challenging than climbing up, though.

Before prayer, you have to cleanse hands and mouth.

 
The Shrine is on the top of the hill.
It's surrounded by trees and calmness despite the fact that this is in the busy city.
Even though you didn't come here for religious purpose, it makes you feel that something is here.
  

About 10 minute walk, there is another Shrine.
Kotohiraguu in Toranomon.

This Shrine is in the middle of the buildings.
Of course nobody built a Shrine among the buildings; this Shrine was founded in 17th century.

Finding this in a midst of concrete jungle is surreal.

When I looked the gate closely...

There were sculptures of four Deity.
This is rare, I think.
At least I've never seen something like this.








The Shrines in Tokyo means not only religious community but they also provide precious nature and relaxing space, physically and mentally.
This gives great relieve for people living in this insanely busy city.

This is a tiny Inari Shrine we found in Ginza between buildings.

It was early morning but people kept coming and praying.