Edo Walk

Some pictures from the Edo Walk. Above is the torii at the entrance to Yasukuni jinja shrine.

A dragon stands guard near the gate of the shrine.

An old sign.

Shrine roof.

A wish for peace. This is an ema, a wooden plaque that you buy, write a prayer or wish on, and hang up with hundreds of others. This one is wishing for good relations between Japan, China and Korea. The Prime Minister and several politicians have been making prominent visits to this controversial shrine in recent years, angering Japan’s neighbors and causing tense relations.

Early blooming sakura in the shrine grounds. Yasukuni and the area next to it, Chidorigafuchi, is famed for its cherry blossoms. Here, the blossoms symbolize the sacrifice of Japan’s soldiers, especially kamikaze pilots.

While we were at Yasukuni, a marching band marched up the long path leading to the shrine to pay their respects, then marched back out.

Although they weren’t overtly miltary-looking, something about it creeped me out. Most people just ignored them or watched with mild curiousity, but a few suit and kimono clad older folks stood at attention.

A replica of a Japanese canon.

A statue of a kamikaze pilot about to embark on his final mission. He is facing Yasukuni jinja, where his soul will soon join those of his fallen comrades. His final words will be “See you again at Yasukuni”.