Opening the Shrine Doors

Sunday morning, we celebrated the annual Kinomori Jinja Matsuri. It was a magnificent Autumn day.  The sun was shining. The air was clear, cool, and crisp. And a soft wind came up as we arrived at the jinja in the forest. It was as if we had planned it—the wind carrying the essence of the kamisama of the forest trees, and gracing us with their presence.

We began at the Haiden (prayer hall), and everyone helped carry the offerings and ceremonial items out to the forest.

We then gathered in front of the jinja for the ceremony. After purifying all the ceremonial items, offerings, and participants, the shrine doors were opened. The offerings of food and drink were placed. The norito was read. An offering of flute music was made. And each person offered a tamagushi branch and prayer.  

Being in prayer when the shrine doors are open is a special experience. It is an opportunity to have a deep, direct connection with the kamisama. And this builds a tie, a foundation, that remains as you come back during the year to pay your respect and offer prayers to the kamisama.