Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Shrine
Today, I’d like to take a little detour from my usual fashion stories and share a cherished summer memory that left a lasting impression on my heart.
The other evening, my family and I visited Yasukuni Shrine, located in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. We were there for the Mitama Matsuri, a very special annual festival that takes place for only three days in mid-July.
Founded in 1869, Yasukuni Shrine is known for enshrining the souls of those who sacrificed their lives for Japan. The expansive grounds feature a majestic torii gate, a sacred main hall, and traditional wooden structures that exude solemn beauty. While the shrine is tranquil and dignified during the day, it takes on a completely different atmosphere at night.
During Mitama Matsuri, over 30,000 lanterns are lit across the grounds, illuminating the shrine with a warm, golden glow. We arrived around twilight, just as the sky was turning a deep indigo and the lanterns began to flicker to life. Walking through the towering torii and approaching the main hall, we felt as if we had stepped into another world. The soft light reflecting off the wooden eaves and the quiet presence of the shrine created a breathtakingly serene scene that I’ll never forget.
The main path was filled with people — young couples in yukata, families, and many international visitors as well. We overheard delighted voices exclaiming, “So beautiful!” while snapping photos of the glowing lanterns. It made me happy to see this beautiful part of Japanese summer being appreciated and shared by people from around the world.
Together with my children, we strolled through the crowd, feeling the evening breeze and simply savoring the moment. It was one of those times where doing nothing in particular feels just right — calm, peaceful, and quietly joyful.
This short festival offers a brief but magical escape from the heat of summer. I truly hope it continues to be held for many years to come.
Next time, I’ll be back to sharing lovely fashion finds.
But every now and then, it’s nice to step away from clothing and take a moment to nourish the heart, isn’t it?