Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Jinja

1:35 AM

We chanced upon the Yasukuni Jinja on our way to the train station. We were drawn by the beating of drums and the lantern lights. We were just in time for the Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Jinja one of the many festivals celebrated here.

When we first reached the Daiichi Torii, we were pleasantly surprised to see how many lanterns there were hanging towards the main shrine. The Mitami Matsuri had just started and was able to witness the locals as they marched and chanted towards the shrine.

Daichi Torii

The name of this Shinto shrine was given by Emperor Meiji. The Yasukuni Jinja was build to remember and honor those who sacrificed their lives for Japan. It is the central shrine for commemorating those who died in wars. There are more than 2 million divinities enshrined here all lives sacrificed to their public duty of protecting Japan. As you walk up to the shrine grounds, you are welcomed by the Daiichi Torii - the largest torii or shrine gate in Japan. You will see then the statue of Omura Masujiro the founder of the Japanese Army. You will also see the biggest bronze torii gate in Japan before entering the Shinmon or main gate.