Photographs from a small group of islands
As the Buddhist slowly approached and then passed the Christian, no words were spoken. In fact, there wasn’t even a nod, just a glance.
Yet it was a reaction nonetheless. One that, despite its minimal nature, was still more than either of them could muster from the masses.
Tokyo may not have seen any, but a few hours drive north there was a light dusting of snow, making it a slightly white, but still very Japanese, Christmas.
Approaching this priest, who was sat perfectly still, I honestly thought he was a display of some sort, or an educational exhibit maybe. In fact only when I got nearer, and he blinked, did I become aware that he wasn’t. A realisation that made me jump, although he, rather predictably, remained motionless.
Now why he was there and what the significance was, I really don’t know, but what is for certain is that he made for quite a striking sight.
Western-style weddings conducted in recreated chapels and churches are incredibly common in modern Japan, but traditional Shinto affairs can still be seen — there’s just less call for them that’s all. And there’s arguably nowhere better to see one than at Tokyo’s Meiji Jingu. Scenes of which, apart from the odd giveaway, could quite easily have been taken years ago, rather than just yesterday.
Praying for health.
And quite possibly, hair.
