April 05, 2008

Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine – A sunny day in Kamakura






In early April, cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Kanto area (around Tokyo). Some are having parties under the trees with sake and good food. Yes, that sounds nice, but how about appreciating both cherry blossoms and Japanese culture in a same place?

Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine is one of the famous sightseeing spot in Kamakura. In this season many cherry trees along the street to the shrine welcome visitors. As this road isn’t so wide that people can see flowers closely. Walking under the cherry gate in the sunny day is one of the happiest moments in Japanese spring.

After appreciating cherry blossoms, let us enjoy other Japanese culture. There is a dancing stage called maiden in this shrine. Dedicatory dances and music are performed, but traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies are conducted at the stage. You may see the ceremony if you’re lucky.

When you reached the main hall “honden”, you’ll see people praying to the Shinto deity. Also it’s good chance to try “omikuji” fortune telling slip.
There some places to enjoy both cherry blossoms and shrine experience throughout Japan. Please find your favorite and enjoy the part of Japanese style.

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