Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine

Next our guide took us to a Shonto Shrine. Although, we have visited other shrines on this trip, here due to our guides explanation, I understood so much more here. This shrine was very picturesque with the red torii (or gate) in front of Mount Fuji. The color red (it is actually more of a vermillion or red-orange) is the color of life and wards off evil spirits. The Kami (or God) enshrined here is Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji. She is often prayed to for safe child birth, safety in travel, and is associated with blooming flowers. We learned how to walk along the side path (leave the center for the gods), wash our hands, and pray. There I bought an Omamori (a charm to bring luck) that I dedicated to family happiness. In Japan most people practice Shintoism. In the 6th century Buddhism was introduced. The people embraced that too, so many homes have Shinto and Buddhist practices that are very intertwined and not seen as different. Today, some Christian practices are seen as romantic, so many weddings and funerals are performed in a Christian manner. And Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are celebrated.