This is an authorized translation in English of a post in French by @japon: Gravir les marches du sanctuaire Atago Jinja à Tokyo

Remember that the person that speaks here is NOT me, Vincent Celier (@vcelier), but @japon, a French guy.

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Climb the steps of Atago Jinja Shrine in Tokyo

A few kilometers from the big fish market of Tsukiji, is a sanctuary that really plunged me into a calm and relaxing atmosphere. The sanctuary Atago Jinja is one of the oldest in the country. Built on the hill of the same name in the heart of the district of Minato, it offers a breathtaking view of the city and skyscrapers nearby.

The peculiarity of the place is this large staircase that provides access from the street to the sanctuary, 26 meters higher. The steep slope is steeped in history and symbolism. Legend has it that Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu saw a sakura cherry tree in bloom at the top of the stairs. He then asked one of his men to climb up and bring back a flowering branch. A young samurai took up the challenge, not on foot but on horseback. Demonstrating remarkable skill, he climbed and descended the steps to bring a branch of sakura to the shogun.

From then on, this staircase took the name of "steps of success" and the place was dedicated to success.

When I arrived, it was stifling. Fortunately I bought a water bottle from the vending machine installed downstairs. And I started climbing. You don't realize it, but the slope is very steep, and I was breathless when I arrived at the top. But a nice reward was waiting for me.

The sanctuary Atago Jinja is a haven of peace among the skyscrapers. This is amazing place that you do not expect to find here. A lot of greenery, a pond with koi carp, lanterns and several places of prayer. The atmosphere is nice and fresh.

It's not very big, I quickly go around. And then I look again, I notice new details. A small path made of Japanese steps, a bamboo fence. Nothing is ostentatious, it is rather discreet and everything seems so natural. Every detail is in its place.

Even if many cars pass on the road below, you do not hear them. This is very quiet. I cannot imagine that I am in the heart of the most populous city in the world.

It is an amazing place that you absolutely need to go to when visiting Tokyo.

As Atago Shrine is located in the heart of the Minato business district, many employees come to pray for their professional success. It is not uncommon to meet a trader in a three-piece suit, come and pray for success in business.

I find the contrast between these two worlds really amazing. On one side there is the world of finance, more and more Cartesian and scientific. And on the other, the religious and spiritual aspect. Religion is an integral part of Japanese culture and society. These traders believe in science, but still come to pray in a sanctuary, without this being a problem for them.

This is not really to undermine their beliefs, but perhaps simply because "it does not cost anything to come to pray". It's just putting all the chances on their side. Why refuse a little divine help? It only takes a few minutes and costs only a few hundred yen.

And you, what do you think about that?

-- @japon

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Travel diary in Japan, by @japon
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Ameyoko, Ueno's colorful market, by @japon
Tsukiji, the largest fish market in the world, by @japon