My Trip to Ise Shrine and Meoto Iwa

On February 3rd I went to the famous Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture. This particular spot is unique because it is the location of several Shinto shrines, and is considered to be the “soul of Japan.” On our way to see the shrines, I was amazed by the giant trees that overlapped the walkway. I found myself greatly appreciating details like the light shining through the branches and how it seemed to produce different colors on the trees’ leaves. The natural landscape was a good refresher from the cramped buildings that I am constantly surrounded by in the city.

The restaurants and shops in close proximity to the shrine exhibited very beautiful, traditional architecture. As we walked through the busy street, we could smell the delicious smoke coming from cooking food and bakeries. I was surprised when my group leader led us into a very small restaurant for lunch, where we were required to take our shoes off before we entered the dining area. Inside, people sat in tight quarters while they ate their meals, all without shoes, all sitting on the floor. I ordered an udon bowl with meat, which contained thick noodles, beef, vegetables, and broth. Our group sat cross-legged on the floor around a beautifully colored wooden table. The atmosphere was comfortable and the constant mumble of external conversations kept the environment vibrant and energized.

After visiting the shrine, our next stop was Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks). This site is famous for its two sacred rocks that represent man and woman, with a rope that represents the connection between the real world and the spiritual realm. Although it was starting to rain, the cloudy light gorgeously illuminated the sea framing the rocks’ edges. There was a stillness that made the sightseeing that much more enjoyable. Looking at this landmark, I thought of the traditional Japanese appreciation for the rustic and imperfections found in all things. Even though the rocks composing this particular landform are asymmetrical and rocks themselves are not conventionally considered ‘beautiful,’ I appreciated the opportunity to observe and reflect on other aspects that were not directly associated with western definitions of aesthetic beauty.