This beautiful shrine is hidden on a mountain near Tochigi Prefecture in Kanuma City. On the way up to the shrine is a huge impressive Tori gate.
Interestingly, this shrine is dedicated to the Tengu. In America, my thinking when I saw this guy was Pinocchio.
Interestingly, this shrine is dedicated to the Tengu. In America, my thinking when I saw this guy was Pinocchio. 
Usually, at the start of the entrance to every shrine, there is a purification fountain. You are supposed to take the ladle, fill it with fresh water and rinse your mouth and rinse both hands. Then transfer some water into your cupped hand, rinse your mouth and spit the water beside the fountain. 
I don't know why every shrine has to be so high up to reach them but you can count on going up at least 100 steps to reach the top. 
When entering temple buildings, most of the time you are required to remove your shoes. You leave your shoes at the entrance on a shelf provided. WEAR NICE SOCKS. I wore sandals and could not go in. There were many lions around this shrine.
Crossing the bridge to reach the beautiful gardens.
This place is so serene, peaceful.
I could not believe the beauty of this garden, there were pine trees that were straight as arrows and looked like they reached the clouds. I think Jack has replaced his vine for one of these beautiful trees to reach his destination. 
The waterfalls within the park were totally awesome to listen to. The group of us sat in a small building that gave a great view of the gardens and just enjoyed everything around us. I hope if anybody gets to come to this place they come in fall when the background would just be spectacular with all the brilliant colors.
