Japan Adventure

Another view of the shrine from across the courtyard.


Closer view of the elaborate entrance with twisted rice straw bales. The hanging ropes are attached to poles that swing to ring huge bells which help awaken the Shinto gods.


Roof detail on one of the many buildings up here. I watched a show recently on NHK World (a Japanese TV channel in English) about an elderly couple who created metal designs like this (maybe these?) their entire lives, in a small shop in their home. He was very famous for his work and died at 95 (still working!). She's continuing his work at 92, still using her husband's hand tools. Labor intensive & beautiful!


White paper prayer wishes are tied on strings.


Inside an open unpainted building, I found these paintings depicting different eras of worshipers.


Family group in traditional dress at the stone torii in Tsuwano near the bridge.