Poetry and Prayers at Meiji Jingu Shrine

The things people say,

Whether good or ill,
Surely can all profit us
If we but listen well.

This verse is written in the traditional 31-syllable form and is one of 30, 000 Imperial poems written by Empress Shoken.

A visit to Meiji Jingu like many shrines and temples you'll find find prayer placards hung by patrons. Many prayers are for happy lives, passing an exam, healthy babies, etc.

Prayer placards

Sayonara.

Prayers and Weddings

Young lady writing a prayer

I spent the day in Yoyogi-koen and Meiji Jingu Shrine. This is the most gaijin I've seen in one place. There were many weddings happening as well as young ones in their Kimonos and Haori Hakamas.

Wedding procession


Happy family with son in his Haori Hakama