In the Japan Times today Stephen Mansfield writes of Matsue and its connections with Lafcadio Hearn (a writer featured previously on Green Shinto here and here).
Matsue is in the charming prefecture of Shimane, one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. … Read the rest
In Japanese mythology – ancient history perhaps – Izumo was a leading kingdom which was absorbed into the Yamato state after several emissaries (armies) were dispatched. Izumo agreed to cede worldly power in return for spiritual autonomy, and a … Read the rest
An interesting review by Green Shinto friend Aike Rots has appeared of a dissertation that focusses on Izumo Taisha and its role in the development of modern Shinto. The shrine remains a significant institution, though as the review below … Read the rest
A reader has written in with photos and to say that the finishing touches are being done for Izumo’s 60 year cycle of rebuiliding (shikinen sengu). A previous posting detailed the very impressive month-long programme of events (see … Read the rest
By now most people have heard of the Ise celebrations this year for the completion of its 20 year shikinen sengu cycle of renewal. The buildings will have been reconstructed, the furnishings remade, and the long series of … Read the rest
Islands are one of Japan’s greatest assets. These little microcosms dotted around the mainlands offer idlyllic escape from the rat race and transport the visitor to an earlier age of timeless traditions. The Shinto practised here is unencumbered by the … Read the rest
2013 is going to be the year of the Shikinen Sengu (rebuilding) at the country’s premier shrines of Ise and Izumo. By coincidence, both major shrines are due to complete their rebuilding this year amidst rites and celebrations. My … Read the rest
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