Said to tbe one the top three picturesque destinations in Japan, Miyajima is an island near Hiroshima famous for its production of brushes of every size and kind – from the tiniest make-up brushes to calligraphy brushes to paint brushes – and the beautifully unique Itsukushima Shrine.
The shrine is unlike any we’ve visited before. Built on pier-like supports, its 20-plus buildings extend out over the sea are all connected by a single walkway. The walkway has slits built into it to allow for the changing water levels between low and high tides. In addition to the gated entrance found on land, this shrine also has an O-Torii (gate at the entrance of a shrine that signifies the separation between the common every-day life and that of a sacred space) situated out in the water. During low tide you can walk from the shrine to the O-Torii. We were there during high tide and could not do that, but we thought it was probably cooler when surrounded by water anyway.
The shrine was originally built in 593 in what is called the Shinden style of architecture. Two spiritual dogs stand guard at the front entrance, signifying the Alpha and Omega, protecting the grounds from evil spirits. Every aspect of the temple is designed with purpose, from the colors, to the buildings to the direction things are facing, everything has meaning. Our guide’s knowledge was impressive, but it was too much information for us to keep track of. We do remember that the bridge you see in the pictures was built solely for the use of Imperial messengers. No one else was ever allowed to use it, and it is closed off from the public.
While we were visiting someone was participating in a sacred ceremony. Our guide said people often arrange for these ceremonies to show their appreciation when a particularly significant prayer has been answered.
As we exited the temple our nostrils filled with the delicious smells of the outdoor market area. Local specialties include maple cakes, which you can watch being made much like you can the donuts at Pike Place Market in Seattle, and grilled oysters. There are loads of oyster beds in the waters surrounding Hiroshima, and the folks here clearly know what to do with them! Unfortunately, we did not bring any Japanese Yen with us, so we were restricted to buying things at places that accepted good ol’ American plastic. Starbucks, anyone? Check out Pam’s name spelled in Japanese.
JodockWorldTravel 