After our delicious, historical treat at Sekibeya, my friends and I continued on to Shizuoka Sengen Shrine. While the shrine itself is interesting and beautiful, our mission was not to see the shrine. These two friends and I are interested in the ancient (third - seventh centuries) Japanese burial mounds called kofun or tumulus. One of the friends learned there was one either near or on the Sengen Shrine grounds.
Of course, there were many steps involved in getting to the kofun!
You think you are at the top, but, no! There are more steps.
Almost there!
Finally! We found it. You can’t go inside, but there is a model and information. You can look from a gated entrance, but it’s dark inside.
This is an interesting place and I highly recommend visiting! History is fascinating!
I think that when one visits a shrine or temple (or indeed any place that is unfamiliar) for the FIRST time, one can be overwhelmed. Basically, one doesn't know what one is looking at. By now, you have visited so many castles, shrines and burial grounds over the years that you easily see details and can also understand the connection between the various religious sects or the different warlords. I bet that for every visit, you detect new details and your interest grows. Doesn't it make it worth climbing all those stairs? Doesn't it feel great to 'see' so much? By going with your friends, you have three pairs of eyes to see with. I hope you will enjoy many more outings.
I love it that you (of all people!) went to a shrine, not to see the shrine! The burial ground looks very interesting. A wonderful, peaceful spot.
ReplyDeleteI think that when one visits a shrine or temple (or indeed any place that is unfamiliar) for the FIRST time, one can be overwhelmed. Basically, one doesn't know what one is looking at.
ReplyDeleteBy now, you have visited so many castles, shrines and burial grounds over the years that you easily see details and can also understand the connection between the various religious sects or the different warlords. I bet that for every visit, you detect new details and your interest grows.
Doesn't it make it worth climbing all those stairs? Doesn't it feel great to 'see' so much? By going with your friends, you have three pairs of eyes to see with.
I hope you will enjoy many more outings.
This post told me a big Kofun is in the sacred area of a Shinto shrine. There must be some important relations.
ReplyDelete