In the middle of what is still known as the
Yoyogi Forest is the shrine dedicated to
the Meiji Emperor and Empress.
This was my first quiet afternoon walk in
Tokyo and I returned on New Year’s with
a huge crowd to ask for favors. It’s amazing
how thousands and thousands of people can walk along together in the night
without disturbing anyone’s peace—just a slow stroll along the wide gravel path
on the way to the shrine and the night vendors.
Bringing my hamaya (a 36” arrow with bells) back in one piece took some skill
as it would not fit into any of my bags. Only Americans were curious about it.