Atago Jinja Shrine

Tranquil, beautiful, a world away from the city below

Sam Hardwick Aug 11, 2015 - 2 min read

<p>Walking through the skyscrapers to find this dramatic shrine entrance</p>

<p>The steps of success leading to the Atago Jinja Shrine</p>

<p>Grounds keeper sweeping the path for the gods to walk</p>

<p>Pray, toss a 5 yen coin, hope for success</p>

<p>Chozuya at the entrance with water to purify yourself</p>

<p>Using a ladle, you cleanse your hands and mouth</p>

<p>Koi Karp almost swarm around for some food</p>

<p>Small restaurant to eat on the shrine's ground</p>

<p>Ema - wooden plaques with the wishes of visitors, hung to deliver to the gods</p>

<p>Visitor bowing to the gods after prayer</p>

<p>Omikuji with fortunes on, given by the gods</p>

<p>Omikuji with fortunes on, left by visitors</p>

<p>In a world away from the city, feeding the Koi</p>

<p>Peak through the window to the outside world</p>

Atago Shinji Shrine is set out of the way up a tall hill, hidden amongst office buildings and skyscrapers. Walking down the road, you first come to notice the numerous and very steep steps leading up into the trees. Climb the steps and you'll walk into a very secluded space, instantly stepping into a whole different world, right out of the buzzing city and into tranquility. The trees seem to work with the birds to block out any traffic and city noise.

When visiting any Japanese shrine it's always good to show the proper etiquette. JapanTravel has the perfect guide here, which talks you through the process of visiting Shrines and Temples. I read this guide before setting off and followed it the best I could; finding myself launched into calmness and not wanting to leave. Some time during my visit a gentle shower began, adding to the already peaceful atmosphere and adding to the natural sounds around.

Making your way back to the steps, a window appears in the trees revealing a couple of buildings, reminding you of the life outside.

Sam Hardwick @sam.hardwick

UK based documentary photographer working in editorial, travel and portrait. My work is heavily narrative driven taking focus on social and cultural connections between society and the environment. A strong travel element flows through my work with the aim to create visuals that capture both the ...