shrines

Deep amid the trees stands a cluster of buildings of quiet dignity- a shrine. Shrines are dedicated to the deities of shinto, Japan's ancient religion. It is said that Japan has around 80,000 shrines. People visit shrines on important occasions to make wishes and to off thanks. shrines take various forms in different locations, and thy are home to many different deities.
- ISEJINGU, in MIE prefecture, this ancient shrine is very important, and it even appears in Japanese mythology. Enshrined here is the sun deity, who is believed to bring bountiful harvests.
- ITSUKUSHIMA JINJYA in HIROSIMA prefecture. The island on which it is located is known as one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. This shrine is built out over the sea,and the gods of the sea the object of worship.
- IZUMO TAISYA in SIMANE prefecture, Enshrined here is the deity who is said to have played a role in the birth of the nation and is also known of bringing people together.
People choose shrines that match their needs and pray to specific deities. Once you pass under the gate "the TORII ", you are in a sacred realm. The approach to a shrine is used by the deity, so it is considered proper etiquette for visitors to avoid walking in the middle so as not to get in the way of the deity. As you proceed, you will come to a purification basin. Before presenting yourself to the deity, you're supposed to cleanse your hands and mouth to get rid of impurities. Up ahead is the hall of worship. This is where you offer prayers to the deity.

Ringing the bell is said to summon the deity and to restore your innocence. The most common way to worship is to bow twice and the clap twice. Then you pray in silence, and you bow one more time at the end. A shrine is a place where you can offer up a prayer and purify your body and soul, so that you can get on with your daily life feeling refreshed and renewed.