229 steps to the top to see this shrine.
The name of this shrine is called Orihime. Orihime was the daughter of Sky King, Tentei. Orihime used to weave clothes for her dad by the heavenly river. The story goes that one day she met a herdsman called Hikoboshi who worked at the other side of the waters. The two fell in love and got married, but after the wedding, they both neglected their work, so Tentei separated them and forbade them to see each other – except on the 7th day of the 7th month, which is now the date of Tanabata (star festival). The city of Ashikaga has a long history of weaving and therefore Orihime Shrine was built and dedicated to Orihime. Because of the tale about Orihime and Hikoboshi, the Orihime Shrine is also a place that celebrates marriage and is considered a sacred place for lovers. For this reason, many couples pay the shrine a visit to pray for their relationship. Never hurts right?
We are ready to get going up those steps. Yes all 229 of them.
UP, UP AND AWAY WE GO! ALMOST TO THE TOP!!
On the way down from the shrine, we decided to take a different path by walking through the many tori gates. I don't recall what all the different colors mean. The signs telling us were in Japanese of course. :-)
The name of this shrine is called Orihime. Orihime was the daughter of Sky King, Tentei. Orihime used to weave clothes for her dad by the heavenly river. The story goes that one day she met a herdsman called Hikoboshi who worked at the other side of the waters. The two fell in love and got married, but after the wedding, they both neglected their work, so Tentei separated them and forbade them to see each other – except on the 7th day of the 7th month, which is now the date of Tanabata (star festival). The city of Ashikaga has a long history of weaving and therefore Orihime Shrine was built and dedicated to Orihime. Because of the tale about Orihime and Hikoboshi, the Orihime Shrine is also a place that celebrates marriage and is considered a sacred place for lovers. For this reason, many couples pay the shrine a visit to pray for their relationship. Never hurts right?
Can we do it? Yes, we can!! Let's get this hike started!!
We have made it to the top and reached the shrine. This is the largest Shinto Shrine in Ashikaga. Here we are with Nobuko and her friend Kazuko.
Before visiting the shrine you must prepare yourself by cleansing at the fountain. This ritual called Chozu. We each poured water first on the right hand then the left hand. In the past, they would take a sip. This is done to cleanse yourself before making any prayers at shrines or temples. Below is the fountain.
Marlon and I chose from the boxes at the shrine for our fortune. We both got good fortunes!
Beautiful view of Ashikaga City from the shrine.
