Takahatafudo's Temple and Religion in Japan

Religion in Japan is incredibly interesting.  Unlike most of the religion practiced in the West, religion in Japan is extremely accepting.  People are not typically pushy about their religion, no one really tries to change your mind about whatever you believe.  People will not just approach you and ask, and if they do, it seems that many Japanese will try to figure out the answer that will most please the asker.  My Japanese Culture professor said of religion in Japan that, "80% of Japanese are Shinto, 70% are Buddhist, 30% are Atheists, and 40% are Unaffiliated."

The temple in Takahatafudo reflects the broad minded approach that the Japanese take to religion.  For instance Shinto shrines do not have pagodas, and Buddhist temples do not have tori.  Also, Japanese graves borrow from many of Hindu burial rituals.  Toris, pagodas, Hindu statues, and statues of the Buddha are all present in Takahatafudo.  This illustrates the compelling differences between religion as practiced in the West as in the East.  Following are some pictures, and some captions when I can be bothered.






Here we are.




These are prayers that have been put up.  Most are wishes for success in business or school.





This pagoda is very tall, you can see it from most of Takahatafudo.






This is a small water wheel that makes a very quiet chimes and bells sound.  Very peaceful.



This is the footprint of the Buddha.  He had big ole' feet.





This is a family grave.  Most Japanese are cremated and the deceased are entombed together in one lot.