Shibamata
After Kawagoe, Shibamata was the next city we went to outside Tokyo during our most recent trip to Japan. When we arrived, we told ourselves that we would be happy to just revisit Tokyo. We sure were grateful to add two new places to our list of cities we've been to now in the Land of the Rising Sun. A million thanks to our friend, a Tokyo local, who recommended them to us. Given that it was the new year at the time of our visit, there were literally thousands of people who flocked to the main city temple, the Taishakuten, to pray and worship. It was virtually impossible to take any pictures of the main altar. I remember seeing lots of people around the city's main commercial area shopping, dining in the many restaurants, and hanging out with friends. In hindsight, it would have been better for us to have come here after the holidays. That way, we could have had the sights more to ourselves. But, then again, how were we to know they were going to be as busy as they were the day we went. It was festive just the same and fun.
This was taken on the grounds of the Taishakuten Temple. While the main temple teemed with worshippers, the small buildings and houses on temple's sides were not as busy. Don't let this picture full you. Yup, there aren't any people in the picture, but, this was really the only second there weren't.
Taken on the grounds of the Taishakuten Temple
At the Taishakuten Temple. Given its proximity to Tokyo, I wouldn't mind returning to Shibamata to explore its sights more at leisure.
We saw these carved stones at another temple in the city.
I would have loved to take this wreath home. I understand it is hung outside homes and stores to bring good luck right around the new year. I certainly can use it as my Christmas wreath at home in the US. Seen at the Taishakuten Sando Street.
Taishakuten Sando Street